Voigtlander Bessa II Winding Problem

After the 6th or 7th frame I have trouble winding the film: it feels really tight and after the 7th frame I can't wind it at all.
Is anyone familiar with this problem, its possible cause and solution?

Many thanks

This is a common problem with a lot of old folding cameras. As the film is wound, the feed spool rides up and rubs against the camera back. Sometimes the only way to deal with it is to open the camera in the dark and release the pressure.

The solution is to open the back and look at where the feed spool is rubbing against the camera back, and rub a little paraffin or bees wax (a little candle wax will do) on those two spots periodically.

Renato Tonelli said:

After the 6th or 7th frame I have trouble winding the film: it feels really tight and after the 7th frame I can't wind it at all.
Is anyone familiar with this problem, its possible cause and solution?

Many thanks

Click to expand...

I have the same trouble with my Bessa RF. I haven't tried David's beeswax solution, but I'm going to. Thanks David. I tried experimenting with different film makers. Fujifilm is trouble every roll, Kodak is much better but occasionally binds, Agfapan never caused a problem, Classic Pan also never caused a problem, nor has Foma. With Ilford I can't see the numbers through the red window, so I don't use it in my Bessa.

I'm surprised by Fujifilm, since it's so easy to load and smooth in every other capacity.

Just my experience. Have you tried different films?

Yours, Matt

I have had film winding problems with my bessa. The problem was caused by the film getting tight and the winding key gutting out the hole on the take up spool. I get round this by using an old metal Kodak spool.
I was using a Voightlander brillant at the weekend with a plastic spool I put a small piece of card between the camera body and the frame that holds the take up spool, this kept the take up spool firmly engaged with the winding key.
Hope this helps.

Charlie

Candle stick wax did the trick.

Thank you.