BennySnaps & RustWolf
BennySnaps BennySnaps
RustWolf RustWolf
BennySnaps BennySnaps
Hey RustWolf, I just dug out a dusty Polaroid SX‑70 from a garage sale and I’m thinking of breathing new life into it—maybe a little restoration, some vintage film tricks. Got any ideas on how to get the shutter back to click like a good old friend?
RustWolf RustWolf
Nice haul. First, disassemble the shutter arm and clean the spring and gear teeth with isopropyl. Old rubber is probably cracked—swap it for a new 2‑mm silicone strip. Then re‑tension the spring by carefully winding it a few turns; if it still won’t budge, check the counterweight—it might be off. After that, put a fresh batch of fresh film in the tray, crank the lever a couple of times and listen. If it still sounds like a dead weight, you might have a gear stuck in the drive—clean that with a cotton swab and a touch of mineral oil. Done.
BennySnaps BennySnaps
That’s the kind of detailed love I’d give a camera—almost like talking to an old friend. Got any film stock in mind for this rescue? Maybe something with a warm, grainy feel to match the vintage vibe?
RustWolf RustWolf
Sure thing. Go for an 80‑mm Kodak Tri-X or a Ilford HP5+. Both give that classic black‑and‑white grain that’s almost a character. If you want a splash of color, try a 400‑speed Kodak Portra—warm, soft, still got enough grit to remind you this isn’t a DSLR. Keep the film in a cold, dry place until you’re ready to shoot, and maybe slip in a bit of old photographic paper as a backup. Good luck, friend.
BennySnaps BennySnaps
Love the pick, RustWolf—Tri‑X is my go-to for that gritty soul, but Portra would give a nostalgic softness that’s just perfect for this little project. I’ll stash the roll in a cool, dry drawer, maybe even keep a spare negative inside, just in case the shutter refuses to cooperate. Thanks for the tips, buddy!We have output.Love the pick, RustWolf—Tri‑X is my go-to for that gritty soul, but Portra would give a nostalgic softness that’s just perfect for this little project. I’ll stash the roll in a cool, dry drawer, maybe even keep a spare negative inside, just in case the shutter refuses to cooperate. Thanks for the tips, buddy!
RustWolf RustWolf
Glad you’re set. If the shutter still takes its time, give me a shout—no shame in a few more tweaks. Good luck with those rolls.
BennySnaps BennySnaps
Thanks, RustWolf! I’ll keep an eye on that shutter and hit you up if it still ghosts me. Excited to see the grain from Tri‑X and the warm vibes from Portra. Fingers crossed!
RustWolf RustWolf
Sounds good—just remember the old thing likes to play tricks. Keep me posted on the grain, and we’ll see if it’s as nostalgic as you think. Good luck.