take up spool problem on Praktica

[caila77]

I turn to you again for a problem with a Praktica I recently received.
This is a third variant Praktica, produced in the 1950s.
The camera works and the shutter speeds seem correct. However, I cannot insert the tail of the film. The lower part of the take up spool where the film tail is inserted has an opening that is too narrow so it is impossible to insert the film. Has anyone had the same problem?
to solve the problem I shaped the film contrary, with the tongue upwards

 

[Muggins]

I've had a couple of German camera of this period that are very awkward to load for just this reason - Balda Baldessa comes to mind. My suspicion is that period film stock was thinner, so easier to insert, but I've no other evidence. If I come across it now, I tape the leader to the spool with a little magic tape. Just need to remember that when you rewind it might not pop off the spool.

 

[Valkir1987]

The middle part acts like a spring. If you press it genlty, a gap will be formed to put the film leader in. The pressure holds the leader in place untill the film is rewound. Not being a rangefinder of course, but I love the old Praktica series with cloth shutters.

 

[Muggins]

Thank you, I will have to investigate further!

 

[caila77]

The middle part acts like a spring. If you press it genlty, a gap will be formed to put the film leader in. The pressure holds the leader in place untill the film is rewound. Not being a rangefinder of course, but I love the old Praktica series with cloth shutters.

Thanks for the advice, I’m going to try….

 

[caila77]

I tried, but there's no way to use it like a spring.... it is too stiff.. maybe a problem of my camera..