Verascope clutch problems

[P3D Gary Cullen/Karoline Cullen <cullen@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Michael Levine wrote:

>If anyone could assist in discussing a Verascope that sticks at about 18 -
>20 frames (9 - 10 pairs), whenever a film is put through, or alternatively
>starts to slip and double expose at that spot, could they contact me.

Michael, it sounds like you have a clutch problem with your Verascope.
There is a thin cork washer at the top of the take up spool (you can see
it) that most likely has shrunk with age or has oil and grease on it. The
function of the cork washer is to act as a clutch and slip with the winding
when the film is finished being wound on. If it slips too easily the film
will not be held tightly against the take up spool and bind inside the take
up chamber part way into the roll. 
The only way to fix it is to replace the cork washer and clean the cork
contact surfaces while it's apart. You should be able to find cork gasket
material at an automotive supply shop and cut it to fit. If you can't find
the right material a thin washer between the old gasket and the spool would
most likely solve the problem as well.
Unfortunately it's a big job to get at that cork washer. As I recall (it's
been a few years since I repaired one) it requires a fair amount of
disassembly of the winding mechanism so you might want to give it to an
experienced camera technician. I'm afraid I don't have any diagrams for you
to go by. 
Good luck!
Gary Cullen


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