Linhof 5x7 to 4x5 reducing back question

[Ben Calwell]

Does anyone know (paging Bob Salomon) if a 5x7 to 4x5 reducing back for a Tech IV 5x7 will work on Tech III 5x7? I’ve searched the internet, but cannot find an answer.

[Embdude]

It is my understanding that the Technika III and later backs are all the same dimensions and interchangeable.

I have not personally checked but have seen photos of 57 III’s with the later backs…

I can personally vouch for the 45 & 23 cameras being interchangeable.

The only compatibility issue I know of is the early 23 III’s had a ridge on the attachment ring that could not mate to the later quick release backs. Only the 23 ever had the quick release, and I have never seen the ridge on a 45 or 57 camera.

[Ben Calwell]

It is my understanding that the Technika III and later backs are all the same dimensions and interchangeable.

I have not personally checked but have seen photos of 57 III’s with the later backs…

I can personally vouch for the 45 & 23 cameras being interchangeable.

The only thing I know of is the early 23 III’s had a ridge on the attachment ring that could not mate to the later quick release backs. Only the 23 ever had the quick release, and I have never seen the ridge on a 45 or 57 camera.

Thanks, Embdude. I’ve seen Tech IV 4x5 reducing backs on the auction site, but I’ve never seen a Tech III 5x7 to 4x5 back. I’m assuming Linhof made a reducing back for the Tech III 5x7.

[Embdude]

Yes the 5x7 III had a reducing back but it was a little different from the later style. The one I have for my 5x7 III has the 4x5 international style back physically attached via screws where the later reducing backs were just adapters with the corner latches so any 4x5 back could be used.