BOLEX - Bolex H16 RX5 Disassembly Tutorial

Comprehensive technical guide documenting the complete disassembly and overhaul of the Bolex H16 RX5, the iconic 16mm film camera first released in 1967 and widely regarded as the pinnacle of the reflex C-mount turret series. This detailed procedural manual walks through each dismantling stage: viewfinder removal, front assembly removal with shutter-to-pulldown synchronization considerations, separation of upper and lower mechanism plates, and complete deconstruction of gears, spindles, and drive belts. The guide then covers comprehensive overhaul procedures including ultrasonic cleaning, appropriate lubrication, and play tolerance verification. Reassembly procedures receive equal attention: mechanism reinstallation within the camera body, claw torque measurement and spring washer adjustment, claw alignment verification using specialized gate jigs, and rotational sprocket adjustment for optimal film loop formation. Final verification techniques are extensively detailed: speed checking using Bolex stroboscopic discs fitted to the 8:1 driveshaft, precision strobe gun measurement with three decimal accuracy, take-up torque measurement, focal flange depth double-checking using specialized RX test lens and bench collimator methodology, and final scratch testing with fresh film stock using magnification. This document represents essential technical knowledge for professional service technicians and dedicated camera restorers working with this precision-engineered mechanical marvel.