8mm Forum: bolex sm8 auto feed question

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Posted by Brandon DeFrancisci (Member # 1028) on November 08, 2009, 11:28 PM:

Good day. I've just plugged in my Bolex sm8 to take a look at some of the old films I'm planning on selling. Is there any trick to the auto feed button? Everything else appears to be working but this key function. The film slides in over the top of the roller but nothing happens when I push down. Hasn't been used for 20 years.

thanks in advace for any pointers

Posted by frank arnstein (Member # 330) on November 10, 2009, 04:17 AM:

Hi Brandon
I struck the same problem recently on an early bolex sm-8.
It had the 2 knob amplifier.
It has a switch inside the back that is worked by the button you are pushing.
Its either got dirty contacts inside or needs a bit more adjustment to push down more onto the switch.
Keep operating the button rapidly for a few dozen times. If it doesn't come good then take off the back cover and find the switch and spray it with contact cleaner while operating the button. With a bit of luck it will come good & the sprockets will turn for threading at the special reduced speed.
let us know how it went. [Wink]

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