ARRIFLEX - Arriflex 16St Service tutorial

This comprehensive workshop manual delivers complete overhaul and maintenance procedures for the legendary Arriflex 16St camera, the standard 16mm film camera since 1952. Beyond documenting the camera's historical role and major cinematographic applications, the service tutorial provides step-by-step technical instruction for professional technicians and experienced repairers.

The guide opens with a thorough inventory of specialized tools and equipment essential for servicing this precision mechanism—precision screwdrivers, flange focal depth gauges, and approved cleaning compounds. A dedicated section covers proper handling of proprietary Arri lubricants (Isoflex LDS 18/05, Molykote G-n, Chronosynth 1/8), specifying application points and methods for optimal camera performance.

The systematic disassembly sequence addresses the drive and buckle switch module removal, platine extraction, and thorough cleaning and lubrication of sprocket drive gearing and counters. Sprocket roller inspection and drive belt assessment follow, with detailed coverage of motor cavity disassembly, electrical contact restoration, and motor drive socket verification. Special focus is given to lens turret servicing, confirming free axial rotation and proper retention spring function.

Critical procedures detail removal and complete overhaul of the movement-mirror assembly, including the pulldown mechanism, ground glass, and viewfinder prism system. Alignment verification of the pulldown claw and registration pin uses precision steel film gauges; focal flange depth adjustment employs calibrated depth gauges for exacting accuracy. Extensive photographs demonstrate cleaning technique, lubrication points, spring elements, and intricate assemblies at each stage.

The manual concludes with essential verification procedures: fresh film transport testing for scratch detection and smooth operation, functional testing, electrical current draw measurement, and magazine tension verification.