Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE: Simplex projector refurbishing

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Posted by Markus Ito (Member # 6207) on 11-08-2011, 12:27 AM:

While going through some old equipment I discovered an old Simplex projector. It's partially disassembled, but all the parts appear to be there. I was considering seeing if I could get it working again, just for the heck of it. Is there anything specific I should do in regards to cleaning and getting this thing to run?

Posted by Sam D. Chavez (Member # 1841) on 11-08-2011, 12:35 AM:

How old?

Super, E7, XL?

Posted by Tony Bandiera Jr (Member # 2365) on 11-08-2011, 01:37 PM:

What Sam said. [Smile]

That has a lot to do with the answers we can give you.

Basically as a general thing, I clean everything with kerosene, dry it thoroughly and reassemble with generous coatings of Simplex oil.

Then, if a Super or E7, grease the gears with a good grade of grease (or Century grease) as well.

Posted by Markus Ito (Member # 6207) on 11-08-2011, 01:51 PM:

Its a simplex Regular. Based on the parts list I have for it, it is at least 50 years old, and hasn't been used for the last 15-20.

Posted by Tony Bandiera Jr (Member # 2365) on 11-08-2011, 01:54 PM:

I think a Simplex Regular would actually be closer to 70-75 years old or more. [Smile]

Candidly, if you're gonna do the restoration just for fun, go for it.

Otherwise, it isn't worth it IMHO. That head is beyond obsolete.

Posted by Monte L Fullmer (Member # 2797) on 11-08-2011, 03:52 PM:

Unless he can find some Wenzell Ace projectors which used the same parts as the Standard..

Posted by Dick Prather (Member # 1136) on 11-09-2011, 01:02 AM:

It all depends what parts are missing. Lots & lots of Simplex standard machines around for parts. If it is for money forget it. If for fun go for it. Send me the serial number and I can give you the year it was made. THey were in production from 1911 to 1937 from Simplex and clones from at least three other companies up to 1950+. Probably several still running and they will put out a great picture if properly adjusted. Download the manual from this forun and let us know what parts are missing or send some pictures

Never used grease on any Simplex. Always oil to keep gears moist and older Simplex machines seeped a bit. No disrespect to anyone that was the way we lubed them here in the NW with no problems. Stardards thru E-7's

Have fun, Dick

Posted by Markus Ito (Member # 6207) on 11-09-2011, 01:48 AM:

Sounds like I have enough get started. I will check for the serial number and let you know. Where is it usually located?

Thanks,
Markus

Posted by Monte L Fullmer (Member # 2797) on 11-09-2011, 02:04 AM:

might be on the front case towards the bottom. the SSN#

Posted by Dick Prather (Member # 1136) on 11-09-2011, 03:35 AM:

Simplex Standard serial numbers are on the rear of the main frame down by the sight box if rear shutter model. Also front plate above lens, if still there.
Dick

Posted by Robert Koch (Member # 3728) on 11-09-2011, 01:23 PM:

If it still has the original case doors and covers and on the lower front cover it`s printed "PM Co"[Precision Machine Co] you have a really old one; Dick will tell you.

Posted by Monte L Fullmer (Member # 2797) on 11-09-2011, 02:12 PM:

Parts Manual for the Simplex Standard

Posted by Mark Gulbrandsen (Member # 72) on 11-09-2011, 02:36 PM:

Some of us think Dick worked for Precision Machine in his previous life... [Cool]

Posted by Markus Ito (Member # 6207) on 11-10-2011, 07:07 PM:

Found a number on the front of the projector: 30587 Didn't see any additional numbers but its a bit dirty so stuff might show up as I clean it.

Posted by Dick Prather (Member # 1136) on 11-11-2011, 02:01 AM:

Markus, that serial number was made 1n 1928. The best number is on the rear of the main frame. That does get quite dirty and baked on stuff from the heat of the arc lamp. Front plates can be changed.

Start finding all the parts you have for it and have fun. Feel free to ask any question.
Dick

Posted by Markus Ito (Member # 6207) on 11-22-2011, 10:13 PM:

It works! Some of the gears were frozen and needed some WD-40 persuasion, but after cleaning everything out and reassembling it, everything turned. The real nerve-racking part was reconnecting the motor and turning it on, but it ran beautifully. I haven't decided what I plan to do with it yet, but I'm very happy that it still works after all this time.