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lunaaron · Joined: 29 Aug 2003 Posts: 14 Location: New York

I have a very specific question regarding the Tube rangefinder on top of my mini speed graphic. On the back of the rangefinder there are two screws that hold the eye-piece in place. My machine screws are missing and i was hoping someone out there knows what size replacement screws i need to buy?
Anyone have any ideas?
cheers, Aaron

Henry · Posted: Thu Dec 23, 2004 8:31 pm Post subject:

You say "rangefinder" but I think you intend "viewfinder." If so, read on.

I removed both set screws from my Century optical viewfinder (short tube) and they are identical 2-56 thread machine screws, 1/8" long. So far, so good. The problem is that they are not threaded for their entire length; only the outer 1/16" is threaded. The inner 1/16" is plain, and of a smaller diameter than the threaded portion. Now whether or not it is essential to have this non-threaded portion I can't say. I do know that if the upper screw is tightened down all the way, the viewfinder collar will not turn; it is necessary to back off the screw about one-half turn or so. You should have no trouble finding 2-56 machine screws at the model railroad hobby shop; take the viewfinder along with you and try some for fit. They might require some alteration, though, to make them work as intended on the viewfinder.

[ This Message was edited by: Henry on 2004-12-23 13:58 ]

lunaaron · Joined: 29 Aug 2003 Posts: 14 Location: New York

Further examination and dissasembly of the view finder has revealed that the plastic has been broken off and the eyepiece had held in place with glue. I have fitted and epoxy'd a piece of plastic in the hole and retapped the two screw holes so i am now set.
thanks for the info though
Aaron

Henry · Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 8:30 pm Post subject:

Congratulations! Sounds like an elegant solution. Ingenuity like this is often necessary when dealing with our "obsolete" (not!) equipment.