Bessler 4x5 (Military issue Type C-6) rangefinder missing a part.

[Harold Eiseman]

I need to find or make a part for the rangefinder. I think it is a plate with a movable cam or arm that sits between the two moveable arms that would transfer t he movement to the rangefinder. This part looks to be adjustable to set up the c amera for a 90mm, 135mm, or 250mm lens. I either need the part or drawings and s pecs to make the part in my machine shop. Also, I need to replace the focal plane shutter. I have one I saved from an old graflex. Will it fit? If so, how many turns are needed on the spring motor to pr eset the tention for correct curtan speed ?

Any help will be greatly appriciated - Harold Eiseman, Oklahoma

[Doug Paramore]

Harold: Do you know if this is a Kalart rangefinder? It was common on most of the old 4x5 press cameras. I believe the Kalarts on some of the Graphics were adjustable for focal length. I have a junked-out B&J-Watson press camera with a Kalart range finder you can have if it is the same. It is and old one, but all the parts are there. I don't know if it is the same type as yours, but you're welcome to it if you want it. It is just taking up space in my work room. Doug.

[Harold Eiseman]

Doug, Thanks for the offer. My bessler has a builtin view finder/range finder with paralax corrected frames for the 135mm & 250mm lens, much like the Horsman cameras. - Harold