Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE: Source for Ashcraft Suprex Model D Reflectors?

This is topic Source for Ashcraft Suprex Model D Reflectors? in forum Film Handlers' Forum at Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE.

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Posted by Randy Loy (Member # 112) on 11-03-2000, 02:26 PM:

Now that we've decided to stay with our arc lamps, we need to take a look at replacing or resurfacing the reflectors in each of them. The reflectors don't do a bad job but they are not as reflective as they used to be.

I spoke with Charlie Wolk yesterday and he said he doesn't think they still carry the model we need (but he's checking) and UltraFlat's estimate for refinishing our old reflectors is probably more than our non-profit performing arts center can afford right now. Does anybody know if these reflectors are still attainable? I believe they are about 14" units.

Posted by John Pytlak (Member # 331) on 11-03-2000, 02:34 PM:

Glue on some shiny aluminum foil

(Sorry, bad joke.)

Seriously, maybe enough of these lamps have been retired to have a few spare reflectors sitting on someone's shelf. Have you tried e-Bay?

------------------
John P. Pytlak, Senior Technical Specialist
Worldwide Technical Services, Entertainment Imaging
Eastman Kodak Company
Research Labs, Building 69, Room 7419
Rochester, New York, 14650-1922 USA
Tel: 716-477-5325 Fax: 716-722-7243
E-Mail: john.pytlak@kodak.com

Posted by Randy Loy (Member # 112) on 11-03-2000, 02:43 PM:

John, I guess I should make sure I glue the SHINIEST side of the aluminum foil closest to the arc.

(Good comeback, I liked it!)

Actually, checking eBay is a good idea. I have a feeling we're going to have to find them from a source outside of the current theatre supply market.

Posted by John Pytlak (Member # 331) on 11-03-2000, 03:00 PM:

Of course, you glue it on shiny side out!

Sad to say, it wouldn't surprise me to hear of some cash-strapped theater circuit trying to save money on worn or broken reflectors in this way. Just like they are waiting for xenon lamps to explode or fail to ignite before they decide they need replacing. Or expecting someone to do an A-chain alignment "by ear" without proper equipment.

Good luck in your quest.

Posted by Gordon McLeod (Member # 33) on 11-03-2000, 06:13 PM:

The Marble Co. has a replacement
THe working distance is slightly different on the ashcrafts than the peerless one

Posted by Randy Loy (Member # 112) on 11-03-2000, 06:34 PM:

Thanks for the info Gordon. I've got Marble's phone number and I'll give them a call Monday.

Posted by Ken Layton (Member # 133) on 11-04-2000, 09:52 AM:

I was just going to suggest Marble Company, but Gordon beat me to it.

I thought I had seen Ashcraft reflectors in their catalog before.

Posted by David Kilderry (Member # 142) on 11-05-2000, 03:41 AM:

Back before xenons took over, I recall many different carbon lamphouses in indoor theatres. At drive-ins here though it was down to just a few; Strong Futura II and Ashcraft Super Cinex and Corelite.

Every Ashcraft I knew of was thrown out when the theatre closed or when 5kw xenons took over. I'd like to see one operating again but I think the chances of that are remote. I did stumble across a pair of Strong Futura II's a few months ago in an old drive-in and even though it had been closed 16 years the carbons were still in the jaws!

David