Why It's Wise Learning To Repair Your Bolex 8mm Pocket Models

[@paulmorbid1476]

*1st before dismantling a Bolex always run it's spring motor all the way down. Otherwise, it will instantly run down to unwind and snap in becoming broken. However, this can be repaired but it's difficult and time consuming*

[@zchawk]

Hi there, I'm presently working through your CLA tutorial playlist and I'm finding it a lifesaver. I recently purchased my first pocket Bolex, a B8L, for a bit of a bargain. It ran fine for the first few days of tests but when I started testing the variable shutter dial soon the motor only started engaging at half open, which naturally is a concern. Ideally I should learn to service and repair these cameras myself, so your channel is proving most useful. I was wondering if you might have any advice on how to resolve this particular issue, I have removed the inner panel exposing the mechanics of the camera and can see the 'rod' controlling variable shutter does still move on command, so that's a start.

[@paulmorbid1476]

Hi @zachhawkins, 1St make sure to fully wind down the motor before dismantling. Otherwise, it'll instantly unwind then snap broken to a stop and possibly damage other gears. The rod you're talking about is the governor. It controls the speed of the camera. I have videos on the channel on how to clean it with metal/brass cleaner as it must be smooth and clean. The videos will explain much more. Don't spray WD-40 in a Bolex (or any vintage movie camera) that'll make matters worse. There's a video about that as well. The camera will have to be dismantled and all old graphite grease removed, parts cleaned that have the graphite grease such as under the winding key. There's lots of small springs and parts so be careful. I'll look through some videos to send you later. Thank you for the kind words.

[@paulmorbid1476]

Zach, If you decide to ever remove the front turret (front part of the camera the lense sets on) 1St check the position of the shutter blade. Because, during reassembly that would have to be reset. Otherwise, when the film is developed it would turn out exposed incorrectly. Best not to touch that area for now. When you have more questions you're welcome to contact me. Here's a video for you. kzbin.infovZ8N8NbZzMw?feature=share

[@paulmorbid1476]

Zach, After you've serviced your Bolex let me know if it works. If not I can suggest other videos that are a bit more difficult. But, they will clean, dust, dirt, rust, film particles and gear dust from other areas of your camera. If that doesn't work then some parts need to be replaced.

[@zchawk]

@@paulmorbid1476 Cheers for the advice thus far Paul, appreciated. Spring was wound down and prepped for disassembly, i've also made a photographic log of each step meaning I can retrace my steps upon reassembly. Labeling the retainers for each part, screw or spring helps too. Looking at the Governer I see it's bent at a bit of an angle, is this normal or should it be straight? Also what would you advice as best solvent for cleaning, the interiors are very good nick but a bit of a touch up wont help and a lubrication would also be useful, should I use an alcohol based grease or gel?

[@paulmorbid1476]

Again graphite grease under the key winder, metal cleaner/brass creamer for the governor then a drop of weapons oil. Don't use sewing machine oil as it'll only last about 4 days. To clean the parts gently wipe them clean with a clean cloth.

[@ClassicalRips]

I am working through your CLA playlist, but I am stuck. I am working on a Bolex S1 Automatic and I am trying to remove the winder, but there is a silver cap over the winder instead of there being three screws. How the heck do I get the silver cap off? I can not figure out how to get it off.

[@paulmorbid1476]

It's best to send it to a technician for that kind of repair. It's very dangerous.

[@ClassicalRips]

@@paulmorbid1476 Oh does this one come apart a different way than the usual 8mm Bolxes? I might look in to getting a different one that is more serviceable if that's the case.

[@paulmorbid1476]

In addition, the motors in the 8mm pocket models are sealed and we're never meant to be repaired only replaced. I can repair them.

[@paulmorbid1476]

All of the 8mm Bolex pocket models are like that. With the motors. The only option is to buy another camera an replace the motor.

[@paulmorbid1476]

And remember. Before dismantling the next Bolex used to take the motor from 1St fully wind down it's spring motor. Otherwise during dismantling the spring motor will instantly unwind and snap to a stop becoming broken. And possibly damaging other parts of the camera.

[@paulmorbid1476]

Basic Cleaning Of Bolex D8L And Similar Models kzbin.info/www/bejne/e4nceI2hlraMfpI

[@paulmorbid1476]

CLA On Bolex D8L Part:1 kzbin.info/www/bejne/iV6sopxpdt54kLs

[@paulmorbid1476]

Never Service Your Cameras With WD-40 kzbin.info/www/bejne/bl7VdJyMlLFmask

[@paulmorbid1476]

Overhaul On Bolex P2 Part:1 kzbin.info/www/bejne/hGKsdJKDiLicptE