Horseman 612 rollfilm holder light leak

<p>I have had this holder for many years and have never had a problem until now. It has a very slight light leak that is coming from the bottom across the film as it winds around the roller on the take up side. I measured where the streak is in relationship to the end of the previous frame. It is a thin straight streak that starts on the bottom side of the film and fades out before the other side.</p>

<p>When I say slight, I really mean it: if the film sits in place for half a minute to a minute there is no evidence of the leak. It only happens when the film has been sitting in one position outdoors for 5 min. or more.</p>

<p>There are two tiny little holes on the bottom side, i.e. below the winder, that may be the source of the problem. One of them looks empty, but I can't tell what is supposed to be in it. I put four layers of black electrical tape over those holes, but I haven't taken a test roll to the lab yet. If that's not it, I can't imagine what else it might be. There doesn't seem to be any place or light to come in. All of the light trap grooves and ridges are solidly intact.</p>

<p>Has anybody ever had this problem? Any assistance will be greatly appreciated, of course!</p>

<p>Thanks!</p>

<p>Roll film holders have light seals around the perimeter of the top and bottom covers ( sometimes called plate ) and they eventually go bad. The screws that hold the covers on are normally accessed from inside the holder. Without a service guide or illustrated parts breakdown it will be a guess as to which screws hold the covers on and which ones attach some of the mechanical parts. The RB67 holder I had a similar problem with used seals 1/32 inch thick.</p>

Andy, I have two Horseman 612 backs and experience occasional light leaks in bright light. Hence my interest in your post.

 

UK outdoor photographer Paul Armitage describes his experience with the Horseman 612 back on his website, within a detailed

description of his Cambo Wide kit. Paul says that the leak happens only when the dark slide is removed and can be avoided by shading

the back from direct light.

 

Let us know how it works out.