Wista VX: Should the upper rail lock tight?

Sjixxxy · Jul 10, 2018

I recently got a used Wista VX camera. Everything seems fine except that after flicking the two levers to tighten down the upper rail, the rail still can move. Granted not as easily as it does when unlocked, but still easy enough that my instincts tell me it isn't correct. But before I start tinkering on it, I just want to know from other users if perhaps it is designed this way for some reason or another?

DREW WILEY · Jul 10, 2018

Every setting on every kind of view or technical camera ever made should either lock tight or otherwise be dependably immobilized at any gear extension. Wista is no exception. But how much is enough for functional dependability and consistently-held focus is something you'll have to determine for youself via testing.

shutterfinger · Jul 10, 2018

The focus lock test as stated in Graflex repair manuals is likely valid for any make of camera.
With the lens mounted on the front standard, set to infinity focus, focus lock set point the front standard perpendicular to the ground. The standard should not move.
Focus / standard locks usually press a block against the side of the rail or standard. The design varies by manufacturer.

B.S.Kumar · Jul 10, 2018

The levers may have got loose. They can be tightened easily with a screw driver.

Kumar

Sjixxxy · Jul 10, 2018

shutterfinger said:
The focus lock test as stated in Graflex repair manuals is likely valid for any make of camera.
With the lens mounted on the front standard, set to infinity focus, focus lock set point the front standard perpendicular to the ground. The standard should not move.

It passed the test!

Wista VX: Should the upper rail lock tight?

Sjixxxy

DREW WILEY

shutterfinger

B.S.Kumar

Sjixxxy

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