posted September 15, 2013 08:11 PM
Hello, I picked up an Argus Vari-Motion model 892Z dual projector. The take up reel runs very slow, it uses a long spring as the belt. Guess it has stretched over time. Not sure where to find a replacement? Has anyone tried to shorten the spring by cutting it? Also I don't have a manual, does anyone know if the film gate swings open for cleaning? If You have a manual would appreciate a copy.
Posts: 5895
From: Bristol. United Kingdom
Registered: Oct 2007
posted September 16, 2013 10:36 AM
Tony Are you referring to the belt from the motor, or in another part for the take-up? You said it was a spring belt, although you now say you are going to replace it with a rubber belt. Do you think that the spring belt was not an original fitment? I have seldom found a spring belt to stretch.
posted September 16, 2013 06:52 PM
Thanks Maurice, The belt I am refereing to is for the take up reel, it is a spring belt. I don't think they make these spring belts any more. I have seen rubber replacement belts on ebay for this projector take up reel.
My original spring belt seems loose, it does run but barely.
Posts: 247
From: St. Louis, Missouri USA
Registered: Dec 2009
posted September 16, 2013 08:56 PM
This projector is a well built machine but the main issue I found with it, is that there appears to be no way to center the bulb's filament with the lens axis.... some bulbs will cast an uneven illumination on the screen without this adjustment capability. The gate does not swing open, you have to push the pressure plate back and then brush it clean.
Posts: 5895
From: Bristol. United Kingdom
Registered: Oct 2007
posted September 17, 2013 06:19 AM
Tony You can shorten the spring belt. You will need a wire cutter, two small long nose pliers and a small round nose pliers.
Don't cut off too much to start with. You can always repeat the process if it's still not tight.
After the cut, use the two pliers to pull out about half inch of each end. With the round nose pliers form a closed loop (eye) on one end. Treat the other end similarly but only form a "hook" with a gap just big enough to slip through the eye.
As I said, if it's still too loose, repeat. You can always remove some wire, but you can't add to it!
posted September 17, 2013 07:37 AM
Yes I was thinking of trying to shorten it and would use the "small steps" approach. My concern is making the ends tight so there is nothing to catch on, therefore running smoothly.
Posts: 5895
From: Bristol. United Kingdom
Registered: Oct 2007
posted September 18, 2013 03:12 AM
Use the pliers to "pull" the connection to the centre of the coiled belt, this should go round the pulleys without a problem.