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Vinzenz
Tinkerer
Username: Vinzenz

Post Number: 34
Registered: 06-2008

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Posted on Sunday, July 11, 2010 - 06:20 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Moderator/Admin only)

The focusing unit on an Agfa Super Isolette (not the infamous front cell of the Agfa Isolette) is very stiff. I cleaned it from the outside with naphta, but could not remove enough of the old grease to make focusing really smooth again.

I have now opened everything up, cleaned the helicoid, but I cannot remove the focusing unit (see picture below). I probably just need to open the retaining ring around the helicoid, but it does not move after heating and treatment with naphta and thinnner. I did not find any retaining screw which locks the retaining ring of the unit. Is this ring secured with something like locktight ?

Thanks
Vinzenz

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Scott
Tinkerer
Username: Scott

Post Number: 104
Registered: 07-2006

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Posted on Sunday, July 11, 2010 - 03:46 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Moderator/Admin only)

Does the retaining ring have two notches on opposite sides? It will be much easier if you have an adjustable lens spanner. If it is stuck, I would try dripping some penetrating oil onto the threads all around and waiting a few hours before trying to remove it. All good auto-parts stores have penetrating oil.
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Vinzenz
Tinkerer
Username: Vinzenz

Post Number: 35
Registered: 06-2008

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Votes: 0 (Vote!)

Posted on Sunday, July 11, 2010 - 03:58 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Moderator/Admin only)

Thanks for your advice.

Yes, there are two notches. You can see one in the picture towards the right side of the ring. I am just not sure how this retaining ring is secured. It moves with the helicoid during focusing. Therefore, it might be held in place with some locktight. I have also looked for a small retaining screw, but there is nothing.

I have tried to open the ring with a spanner wrench and considerable force. I fear something could break, if I force it even more. And I would rather be careful with this beautiful camera...
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Vinzenz
Tinkerer
Username: Vinzenz

Post Number: 36
Registered: 06-2008

Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!)

Posted on Monday, August 02, 2010 - 10:19 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Moderator/Admin only)

Finally I just cleaned the focusing ring from the outside with naphta and then some acetone to soften the old (infamous) Agfa grease. After relubing the focus is smooth like new again.

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