4x5 lens cleaning and shutter calibration

[scott russell]

Hi, I have a Schneider lens that is a little unreliable in the slow section. Sometimes it'll fire on what seems like 1/60th of a second when 1 second is selected. you have to shoot it at once second a few times before it seems like it "triggers" the timing part (and you hear the little gears wind). I'm in Baltimore, MD and dealing local would be nice, but i don't mind shipping it out if there's somewhere better. The only place i know if is KEH in georgia, they quoted me 135.00 to take the lens apart, clean it, and fix the shutter and it will take a couple weeks. anyone suggestions?

[anchored]

Surely as big as Baltimore and the surrounding metroplex area is there will be several camera/lens repair stations... would suggest a trip to the yellow pages? "Specialty" services shouldn't be required, simply someone that knows shutters.

Recently had a 75mm Grandagon-N repaired locally at Garland Camera, Garland Texas (north of Dallas). The shutter blades were hanging and the recessed board had the screws stripped. Full repair of shutter blades, timed, cleaned, remounted with new screws, etc. cost $90. Took it to the repair center on Friday afternoon... picked it up Wednesday morning.

The price didn't scare me away from one of the lens specialists often seen referred to on this group... simply the time element. If you don't want your lens tied up for weeks, or even months, you might first try to find a local service.

But... if you have to send it away: Tempe Camera in Arizona does fine work (have used in the past with good results and time-frame)... my brother has sent work to SK Grimes and was extremely pleased with the service... or, I'm sure Garland Camera would also be happy to handle the repair if you are wanting a quick turnaround (nearly always done within 4 days of receipt).

[lenser]

Contact Carol Miller at Flutotscamerarepair.com. She chargers around $50.00 for a complete CLA and I've been totally happy with the several lenses she's done for me.

Good luck.

Tim