GA645 winding problem

[Fujiarthur]

I bought a GA645 recently and have been using it with great success until last weekend when I opened it up to remove an exposed film and found that it was very loose on the take-up spool. I found a few references to this problem on the net, but no real solution. Has anyone in this forum experienced this problem and, if so, is there a solution? Is it just user error? I have followed the loading instructions carefully. 😕

 

[DougK]

I've had this happen to me on two of the dozen rolls I've run through mine but I haven't been able to figure out why it happens. If anyone has a solution, I'd love to hear about it.

 

[mongo141]

I've had this happen to me on two of the dozen rolls I've run through mine but I haven't been able to figure out why it happens. If anyone has a solution, I'd love to hear about it.

Hi, I have a Fuji Ga645Zi and only had that problem on the first roll of film. The fix was simple, the paper leader slips on the take up spool. the most effective fix I found was to use a Fuji QL spool which has a little tab sticking down in the film slot. I take a single hole punch and punch a hole in the end of the fresh spool of film and use it just like a spool of Fuji QL (Quick load) film. I also put a small amount tension on the supply spool with my thumb while it is positioning. This can also be done without a QL spool (adding tension during positioning) and I haven't had any problems doing it that way but better safe than sorry so I just use a Fuji QL spool. My local processer gave me a handfull so I just cary some in the bag and a punch and put a hole in the paper in the same spot as on Fuji film. Has worked perfectly so far. Regards, Dave

 

[DougK]

I'm normally pretty careful about tensioning the takeup spool but I will have to try this and see if it helps. Thanks for the tip!

 

[wlewisiii]

Interesting. I've been shooting a fair bit of Fuji of late so I'll have to try this (since I then end up with thier spools as my takeup.) Thanks!

William

 

[Fujiarthur]

Thanks to all who replied and for the advice. I am not familiar with the Fuji QL spools, but I will make some enquiries with local photo retailers and processing labs. Regards, Arthur.

 

[Doug]

"EL" and "Easy Loading" are molded into each end of the Fuji spools... Frankly, I never noticed that or the little hook thingy before, so thanks for the tip! 🙂