ed_prest Posted November 19, 2003 Share Posted November 19, 2003 Re: SQAi and 120I backs.I found a frame with a bluish streak across the frame. I was taking pictures while raking leaves and just left the camera in the sun. After placing the develloped 400 speed film in the back it was obvious the leak was coming from the top of the back where the catch is. I was using a new to me waist finder instead of my usual prism which is important as the prism covers the catch giving it some shade from the sun. The finder leaves the catch area fully exposed to the sun. Closer inspection revealed that the interior foam seal was less than perfect. Easily fixed up. More interestingly, close inspection reveals the fact that the back design itself provides a slot where another top seal can be inserted. This slot is just above where the hooks lock the back closed and runs the full length across the back. I assume the factory does not install anything there from the backs of different vintages I have. I fabricated a seal from 1/32 in. reinforced rubber strip and fitted it. Carefully cutting it to the exact width provides a snug light seal in addition to the regular production part. I didn't even need glue as it stays put. I suppose Bronica decided to not bother with this seal in production as most of the time its not necessary? Maybe its a good idea to add it. (If there is interest I'll post pictures). Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
moore_photography Posted November 19, 2003 Share Posted November 19, 2003 I for one would definitely like to see this fix. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ken_heflinger Posted November 19, 2003 Share Posted November 19, 2003 I would second that. I would like to see a picture too. Ken Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
roland_ehrlich2 Posted November 19, 2003 Share Posted November 19, 2003 Me too ;-) just had a light leak in a brand new magazine for my SQ-Ai, although in my case it seems that the slot for the darkslide was responsible. However, I noticed that Bronica uses hardly any foam for sealing... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
shutay Posted November 20, 2003 Share Posted November 20, 2003 Well done! I'd like to see some pictures also. Am in the process of acquiring a used SQ-Ai outfit. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ed_prest Posted November 22, 2003 Author Share Posted November 22, 2003 Here's some images to help make the job clearer. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ed_prest Posted November 22, 2003 Author Share Posted November 22, 2003 2nd try Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ed_prest Posted November 22, 2003 Author Share Posted November 22, 2003 Ok, I'll try HTML: <a href="http://www.photo.net/photo/1927156" >Instructions</a> Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ed_prest Posted January 26, 2004 Author Share Posted January 26, 2004 Newer 120 i backs (1998 type i and later) have a new catch area design. Bronica has added a metal lip and more foam making light leaks in thia area much more unlikely to occur. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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