Converting a Pressman into a 4x5 enlarger

[Pops]

Just wondering if it’s possible or been done with something similar. Thanks.

[ic-racer]

[Pops]

Well, well, well. That would do it, but probably rare as hens’ teeth.

[LabRat]

There's plenty out there, but the problem is they may or not work now, as the grid inside may be bad, or more commonly, the wiring is old and deintergrates... I had to rebuild one that the wiring insulators turned to dust and shorted!!! Power pack is filled with tar to insulate, and blocks access to at least 1 cable... And the neg carrier is a little undersized, and there is a light fall-off near the corners...

There is a new version of this from one of the new start-up camera makers using LED'S that's worth looking into...

Finding a used camera copy stand to support enlarging camera will save much time and effort during use...

Steve K

[Pops]

There's plenty out there, but the problem is they may or not work now, as the grid inside may be bad, or more commonly, the wiring is old and deintergrates... I had to rebuild one that the wiring insulators turned to dust and shorted!!! Power pack is filled with tar to insulate, and blocks access to at least 1 cable... And the neg carrier is a little undersized, and there is a light fall-off near the corners...

There is a new version of this from one of the new start-up camera makers using LED'S that's worth looking into...

Finding a used camera copy stand to support enlarging camera will save much time and effort during use...

Steve K

Thanks. Would you have a link to the LED unit?

[Duolab123]

Just say no.

[Pops]

Just say no.

??

The Graflex.org website has an Aristo part number for the lamp. Aristo was making them as needed... about 20 years ago. Lol

[ic-racer]

Light source can be found easily these days (LED Panel), You will need to make a device to hold the light panel to the back of the camera with provisions for a negative carrier. Traditionally wood is used but 3d printing would be state-of-the-art these days.

Many would agree (as DuoLab hinted above) that a pre-manufactured device (an actual Large Format Enlarger) is the best way to go.

Some person on APUG was hemming and hawing over buying a functioning 4x5 Omega enlarger for $45.

[Pops]

Light source can be found easily these days (LED Panel), You will need to make a device to hold the light panel to the back of the camera with provisions for a negative carrier. Traditionally wood is used but 3d printing would be state-of-the-art these days.

Many would agree (as DuoLab hinted above) that a pre-manufactured device (an actual Large Format Enlarger) is the best way to go.

Some person on APUG was hemming and hawing over buying a functioning 4x5 Omega enlarger for $45.

I'm sure buying a 4x5 enlarger would be the best option, but this is the DIY sub-forum, after all. lol

I recently missed out on a complete, free 4x5 darkroom in Savannah by only a couple of hours. I'll keep looking. I'm not really handy with electrical stuff anyway.

[Ethan]

If you want to DIY an enlarger, elgatosuizo posted a guide in this sub forum recently on how it can be done for ~$100. 4x5 enlargers aren’t super rare either though, so if you don’t want to do DIY electronics, keep your eyes open one will probably turn up. I know the photography center near where I am has a few for sale, but shipping from VT to SC may be cost prohibitive.