Large format camera CLA + bellows replacement options in the US?

[Nathan Olsen]

Hello,

I have a Toyo 45CF that is in need of a general CLA. I'd also like to send in my new bellows to have them replaced by someone reputable.

Does anyone have recommendations for a place in the US that could do this for me? I emailed Toyo recently and have a contact there, but want to see if there are other options available.

Would also be interested in recommendations for places that can CLA 4x5 lenses.

Thank you!

 

[xkaes]

I'm sure you will get some suggestions, but I guess you missed this:

Sakai Machine Tool (makers of Toyo View cameras) to end operations Jan 31st, 2025.

As seen on Twitter, with translation: Truly sad to hear. Can't believe they lasted this long, honestly.

www.photrio.com

 

[Trail Images]

Richard Ritter changed out my Wista DXIII 4x5 bellows last year and it was a very professional job.

Richard Ritter LF Camera Repairs

 

[abruzzi]

There aught to be a sticky thread in this forum with some names. Bellows I'd reccomend Custom Bellows in the UK:

Custom Bellows

Their prices are very reasonable and they do custom mods. Are the Toyo bellows removable so you could send them in without the camera?

Lenses I don't know, but if its just the shutter you want CLA'd I've used Carol Flutot:

F L U T O T ' S Camera Repair

She's very good, but there is a waiting list. You can also try Zacks:

Zacks Camera Repair – Zacks Camera Repair Website

General LF camera service tend to be more brand specific, and I don't know who would be good for Toyo.

 

[xkaes]

"CLA lenses" can mean different things -- cleaning the glass, cleaning the shutter, or both.

It should be visually obvious if the glass needs cleaning or not, and it's easy to test a shutter to see how accurate the speeds are -- and decide if it needs a cleaning. No shutter is 100% accurate & consistent anyway.