SL66 fil loading problem

I am testing a Rollei SL66 with a view to purchase. There are two

film backs. Both have matching serial numbers on the body and insert.

One film back works according to the instructions but the other has a

problem. When loading a film, after the back is closed, the film

winding knob on the right side of the magazine (the one that has

popped out when you load) does not stop when the film has reached the

correct location for exposure 1. It can be turned further until it

gradually becomes stiff after two-thirds of the whole film has been

wound through.

 

How does the back sense the start of the film? I assume that

something is out of adjustment. What are the options for repair?

Thanks for any comments.... John Stockdale (Melbourne, Australia)

The SL66 backs used the infamous film feeler system to stop the film at frame 1. This system is quite good but can get out of adjustment, requiring service. Same system used in the Rollei TLR's as I recall (or at least the same basic idea). It senses when the increased thickness of the film is wound in place, triggering the frame counter system. Harry Fleenor of Oceanside Camera Repair in Manhattan Beach, California is the Rollei SL66 repair guru in America. Also Marflex in New Jersey.

One of my backs had this problem. In my case it turned out to be very simple to repair. Remove and look at the insert and see if any of the screws are loose; particularly the screws holding the side plates in place. Vibration and use cause them to back out. Hopefully your case will be the same. Ohterwise you'll have to look for a Rollei shop.

 

Cheers,

 

Duane

Thanks Greg and Duane. I looked at the insert and although the screws were not loose, one of the side plates of the insert was bent outwards. How do these things happen to people's cameras?

 

Anyway, I straightened it and the film loaded correctly. Thanks for the idea.