How do I get to this screw?

[cameracrack]

<p>I am trying to remove the top cover of my Signet 40 to <strong>try</strong> and fix the problem that I am having. The film advance lever won't lock. I opened the bottom compartment and I don't think the problem is there.<br /> I can't find instructions for my issue so I am taking a stab in the dark. I rather try than own a decoration.<br /> So the problem is that I can't get to this screw. I have not a clue how to get to it since the film winder doesn't seem to just screw off. Do I need a special tool?<br /> <img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2455/4160715494_ef8bffdd8d.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="375" /></p>

[gene m]

<p>Looks like you need a 90 degree screwdriver.</p>

[john_robison3]

<p>It looks like the screw has been removed before. I'd try to make the tool to remove the screw. Starting with a 90 degree hex wrench I would file a blade into the short end to fit the slot as sung a I could, then try to unscrew the fastener. It should turn off in the conventional counterclockwise direction.</p>

[rogerwb]

<p>Even if you remove the screw with a 90 degree screwdriver, you are going to have to remove the disc on top in order to remove the cover.</p>

[cameracrack]

<p>That is very true. I am so stumped. Anyone else with some tips?</p>

[matthew_stott]

<p>1. if you were to go after that screw, then what you would need is called an offset screwdriver. Available anywhere for cheap- without filing hex wrenches down.</p>

<p>2. Most people do not design screws you cannot get to (they need to build these things on an assembly line, after all). I am guessing (knowing nothing of the camera you are working on), that the dial that is lifted goes into the camera and has some prongs that go inside a film canister or something. Try to hold these prongs still (a screwdriver shaft between the prong tines) and twisting off the top dial. This is how most film rewind levers come off so one can get the top cover off.</p>

<p>3. Good luck and let us know how it goes.</p>

<p>Matt</p>

[greg_nixon2]

<p>As Roger has pointed out there is no point in removing that screw without taking the disc off the top of the shaft first.<br />I would lock the rewind shaft by wedging it with a piece of wood, end of tweezers, or similar in the fork on the inside end of the shaft. Then try to unscrew the top disc. It should just be a RH thread screw.<br />If that doesn't shift it then look carefully at the cover plate, which may prise off to reveal a screw underneath. Once you get that off, the cover screw will be accessable with a normal screwdriver and you can proceed from there.</p>

[rdm]

<p>I have three of these and one of the ones i like to always use, is starting to have advance lever problems, sometimes it doesn't catch and i have to wiggle it . Is this the problem you are having ? Well i have to finish the roll of film currently in it and then i will Try what your trying to do , i think the rewind crank twists off too, i will give it a shot when the film is finished. Now i just have to figure out what to shoot. I have about 12 exposures left.</p>

[cameracrack]

<p>I tried the method that you have mentioned Greg. Both my husband and I tried to twist it off with the tip of a butter knife. It would not budge, it felt like it was going to break... the butter knife bent.</p>

<p>Dan- I have two Signet 40's with the same problem. I have no idea how to fix it and it's a real shame, they are also my favorite. I have no idea how to fix it. I have tried to find any info online but it seems that there is none. If you have any luck let me know please!</p>