adjusting rangefinder on Ensign Selfix 820 Special

[Allan Ostling]

The horizontal alignment on my 820 Special is way off. When the uncoupled rangefinder is set to infinity the split image merges on an object at a distance of six feet. The vertical alignment is pretty good. It appears that adjustment is as simple as turning the two concentric screws on the top plate. I'm guessing that the central slotted screw is for securing the setting, and the concentric screw with it's "2-pin" (actually two short slots) head is for changing the setting.

The center screw is jammed tight. Any chance it is reverse-threaded? I'd like to know, before I apply max force. I probably need a 2-pin spanner to position and hold the concentric screw.

Have any of you done this procedure?


https://www.rangefinderforum.com/rff...photoid=305054

 

[monopix]

I don't know but it could be the other way around with the outer screw locking the inner one. Have you tried unscrewing the outer one first?

 

[Allan Ostling]

Both screws are currently locked together, and to the protruding sector wheel (which turns freely between its far and near positions). Busting the concentric screw loose from this partnership apparently requires a special spanner, which I don't have.

 

[Miles.]

I had Jurgen at Certo6 service this exact camera about 6-months ago and he mentioned some aspects of repair not being as straightforward as the more common folders, so I'd ask him if he remembers mine and if he has any advice.

Good luck!

 

[Allan Ostling]

I'll be interested in what your repairman says. I have now dropped my camera off for repair at Arizona Camera Works, but it might be two weeks before Morris starts on it. In addition to adjusting the rangefinder he is going to try to remove significant fungus from the lens.

 

[Allan Ostling]

Before dropping the camera off for repair I exposed a roll of FP4, and developed it in Ilfotec DD-X. Despite being cursed with extensive fungus the Ross Xpres 105mm f/3.5 is capable of sharp images. Here is one from the roll, showing the original control tower for the old PHX airport. I remember when that was in service, when I moved to Phoenix in 1965 fresh out of university.