Graflex.org

[jmccl@yahoo.com]

I won't be using the rangefinder so I think I want to remove the accessory shoe bracket and the range finder. The bracket should be no big deal but I'm wondering if I might open a can of worms when I remove the screws that attach the Kalart to the body. What about the parts that are inside the box and is there some special tool needed to disengage them. If I need to disassemble the bellows, I'll just leave well enough alone. I will appreciate your input.

[Dan Fromm]

Leave the RF in place. If you ever sell, the camera will be worth more with the RF than without it.

[Henry]

Agree with Dan. Were I in the market for a Graphic/Graflex, any without the Kalart would be a deal-breaker. I'm always somewhat amused (and dismayed) by the prices and values I see on uBuy for cameras without the Kalart. Especially for those who will do any hand-held work at all, the rangefinder is a must, IMO.

[45PSS]

The rangefinder actuator arm is attached to the rangefinder shaft with a 3/16 wrench size set screw. It will have to be loosened to remove the rangefinder. Once removed there will be 4 screw holes in the side of the body where the rangefinder was mounted and a 1/4 inch hole through the body where the rangefinder shaft goes. The actuator arm can be removed from the body once the rangefinder is removed without disconnecting the bellows from the rear of the body but it is much easier to work on the actuating arm once the bellows are removed. The bellows are attached to the body with 1/4 inch long nails, #18 or #20 gauge. New ones are no longer available and the existing ones have to be pulled out.

You won't notice the few ounces in weight reduction removing the rangefinder will provide.
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