Stiff focusing bellows on Meopta Magnifax

Tom Kershaw

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Jun 5, 2004
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4,974
Location
Norfolk, United Kingdom
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Multi Format
I have recently started using my Magnifax enlarger again, mostly with the intention of leaving it set-up for smaller print sizes, and practical exposure times with those small prints. It all still seems to be working fine so far however the focusing bellows between film plane and the lens has become extremely stiff to operate. Does anyone here have experience with getting this part running smoothly again?
 

Martin Rickards

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Dec 24, 2016
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390
Location
Asturias, Spain
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35mm
I believe the Magnifax has leather bellows, whereas my Opemus has rubber. I had a similar problem and I just used a couple of squirts of aerosol lubricant on the focusing mechanism and all was fine
 

guangong

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Sep 10, 2009
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3,589
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Medium Format
Ditto Martin. If leather bellows stiff, I would try judicious application of small amounts of neetsfoot oil over time. That’s what I would do, but wait for a few more responses. There must be someone else among APUG who had your problem and can give concrete advice.
 

Patrick Robert James

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Jul 31, 2012
Messages
3,362
Format
35mm RF
If that were my enlarger I would take the mechanism apart and clean it. To get rid of what appears to be rust, rub some wet aluminum foil on the posts until they are clean. Clean the inside of the mechanism with a degreaser, then lube it up and put it back together.

If you don't want to do that, put some lube on it. The squeaking noises are from a lack of lubrication.
 
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