I was given an enlarger over the weekend, which I am delighted to have - far better than the one I've been using. The enlarger is a Beseler 23c II. Unfortunately it looks as though it's been collecting basement grime, dust and moisture for 20 years. The baffles appear to be light tight and a new lamp works in the head. After a through cleaning it looks usable. My question is with regards to the mechanical parts. The bars that guide the head for focusing, etc. need lubrication so that every thing moves better. What can I use for this, 3 in 1 household, silicone, or is there something else that would be less invasive? Secondly, the lens looks somewhat milky and I'm thinking I'm going to have to replace it though I've not tried it yet. Is there somewhere online I can pick up a used or reasonably priced 50mm lens for this type of enlarger? Any other thoughts about pre-cleaning or work that should be done before I put this beauty back into use would be appreciated as well. Wanted to go ahead and give it a whirl tonight but ran out of time.

-- Terry Durden (terry12@ix.netcom.com), April 23, 2002

Answers

Hi Terry,

Take apart as much as you're comfortable with and wash it in soap and water. Dry. Wipe off the rest. Don't use any oil or grease on the rods. The parts move on plastic bearings and shouldn't be lubricated. The rods are plated and can develop a rough surface. I actually replaced mine with ground stainless steel rods for smoother focusing, but some Scotchbrite can work wonders (watch the dust). If you absolutely have to lubricate, use a dry film lubricant with moly. I think Beseler offers a rebuild kit you might look into. Email me with specific questions or look at the weird technical stuff in my website- http://members.rpa.net/~choffman/index.htm concerning illumination and alignment. You'll probably want a new lens. Get one of the "big 3" new or on eBay.

-- Conrad Hoffman (choffman@rpa.net), April 23, 2002.

As Conrad very wisely suggests, after cleaning it adjust it and align it very carefuly. Very important with every enlarger that might have recieved shocks (transportation, etc).

-- George Papantoniou (papanton@hol.gr), May 03, 2002.