Elmo FP-A speed control fix

[Tom Fales]

Been have a great time modifying some of these old projectors for LED and special lenses. However, I just got an Elmo FP-A projector in great shape except that the speed control does not function. Before I tear this apart, any suggestions on what might be causing this? The knob is tight and moves smoothly but does not affect the speed at all, whether forward or rewind.
As a side note, I found that by removing the sleeve that holds the standard Elmo zoom lens in place, the projector will now take lenses with a 1 inch barrel diameter. This means lots of options for putting 16mm lens in for transfer projects.

[Janice Glesser]

Sounds like the rheostat itself is failing. I haven't worked on one... but you might try some contact cleaner on the switch to see it that helps. There also may be some wiring or solder joints bad ... not making contact.