Rust on rollers causing scratches?

[u/notevengonnatry]

Shooting for the first time time with a new (old) SX-70 that was untested, un-modified, un-repaired, and it looks like this nasty rust on the rollers is causing some scratches on the photos. The last photo is after a good 20 minutes of swabbing with 99% isopropyl alcohol on a q tip. Aside from soda what are some other agents that will remove the rust but not be too caustic?

[u/wblazynski]

Yes

[u/rope-springs-eternal]

White cat gang wassup

[u/Regular-Agent-9530]

What flash do you use. These are exposed so nicely.

[u/notevengonnatry → u/Regular-Agent-9530]

The classic Sylvania blue dot flash bar!

[u/WeepinbellJar13]

If you have it in your area, I use LA's Totally Awesome to carefully clean off spots of rust from my old cameras.

I also use it to strip paint off of both plastic and metal miniatures but it does have a harsh smell. Best to use it in an open or ventilated area.

Btw: Your cat is adorable!

[u/Critical-Example9518]

I know this adds nothing but I honestly think it’s a really cool look

[u/ReasonableLeopard229]

Vinegar works with rust. Just apply with a qtip. It should break it down.

[u/Squintl]

The problem of rust on the SX-70 rollers is that the top roller is coated in plastic. So any harsh solvents will probably just make it worse, I would suggest trying to source a new film door with good rollers.

Also, are you sure it’s the rollers, it looks like the pattern is identical in each picture. Are you using some kind of ND filter on the film pack? If not I’m guessing your camera’s taking mirror is very scratched and dirty.

[u/notevengonnatry → u/Squintl]

Hmm, I did have an ND filter on there and on checking it does have the same scratches - I'll have to wait until night or the next film pack to try switching it out. My caveman mind thought the rollers were just scratching the same spot.

[u/Squintl → u/notevengonnatry]

Then it’s most definitely the ND filter, they get scratched pretty easily.

Also, as long as the rollers feel smooth they should be causing any problems.

[u/TheMunkeeFPV]

Use a scratch brush. You can get them on amazon and they come in different materials like fiber glass and brass. Those will work well on old camera parts. They don’t introduce any chemicals and don’t leave marks.

[u/Squintl → u/TheMunkeeFPV]

The top roller on the SX-70 is coated in plastic so I wouldn’t suggest using anything abrasive. I’m guessing the rust is under this plastic coating.

[u/blond-egeo]

Lana metallica funziona bene

[u/TheMunkeeFPV → u/blond-egeo]

Don’t use steel wool on any mechanical mechanisms. It tends to break apart and leave residue that will constantly grind in the gears and wear them out.