Problem with loading film

[ymc226]

I have QLK (quick load kits) on all of my M2s and my M3 and use them quite regularly without fail. I just load as directed with the opening at 9 o'clock and confirm traction onto the sprockets before closing the back door. I then close up, tighten up on the rewind knob and confirm film loading with 3 more additional film advance/shutter releases while watching the rewind knob move. I've never had a roll go unexposed.

I've a new to me M2 in great condition cosmetically and a new to me QLK from Sherry. After I do the above. After the 4th or 5th film advance (the first 3 are confirmed with motion of the rewind knob as decribed above) the film loses its hold on the spool and I cannot advance the film further. Opening up the bottom, the film is loosely coiled around the QLK spool.

Is there a way to tell if it is the QLK spool that is at fault or something with the camera such as the pressure plate/sprocket or another issue. It was CLA'd by a previous owner by Sherry several years ago.

 

[Al Kaplan]

I jumped on the Quick Load Kits when they hit the market. At last my older M bodies could load as fast and easy as my M4 and M2-R bodies. BIG disapointmet. I had the same trouble as you had. It probably tells us something about them that Leitz closed them out at fire sale prices, about $12.95 I think.

Of course a few years later there's a new generation of Leica owners who never heard anything about the problems. If you bought them years ago you can turn a good profit now. Interestring gizmos but they don't work in a reliable fashion.

 

[Blank288]

Well, my M2 came with a QL-kit which never caused problems up to now. I'll check it in future.
Could it be that the take up spool has a too loose fit on its base compared to your other QL-spools?

 

[ymc226]

Thanks,

I have an extra QLK spool and will use that when this roll is finished.