Bunching Bellows Obstructing Light

<p>As it turns out, sagging bellows was not obstructing the path of light in my old korona; the problem is caused by bunching bellows. Pulling the bellows forward eliminates the problem. In a recent post on sagging bellows, Colin referred to small tabs on the sides of some bellows designed to hook onto metal hooks on the front standard to remove slack. My bellows used to have these tabs, but the leather rotted away. The metal hooks are still on the front standard. Replacing the old leather tabs is out of the question, for doing so would ruin the bellows. Any ideas about how to address the problem? Thanks. Bill </p>

<p>Go to the hardware store and get some <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D-ring">D Rings</a>, some contact cement, and some leather strips from a Hobey or arts and crafts store. Clean the bellows with Isopropyl Alcohol where the straps were/are to go, and glue the strap with D ring to the bellows where the originals were.</p>

<p>Another alternative is to make a bar underneath to support the bellows. You can see one on the ebonycamera.com site holding up the bellows of an 11x14.</p>

<p>Thanks. Bill</p>

<p>In a pinch, you can simply (gently) shove something under the bellows to hold it up. A hat, gloves, etc. A piece of fowm cut for the job also works.</p>

<p>I had a similar problem with my Korona Pictorial View. I found that the box my Polaroid 545i back came in was just the right size to hold up the bellows when they sagged. That worked like a charm until I replaced the bellows.<br>

If the bellows are generally in good shape, Charles' suggestion to glue on tabs with new rings is an excellent one.<br>

Dave</p>