DIY and tweaking digital backs

[oldphotog]

Hello all. I am new to this forum, so this may be already covered in another thread. I just didn't find it. I am interested in connecting with friends who try to change, repair, or modify digital backs.Since the prices have been coming down, some of us are able to get our hands in old ones, but information on how they can be adapted, changed, or tweaked is scarce. My first question: has anyone disassembled a Leaf Credo 40 back? I'm trying to modify one with a Mamiya fitting to work on my Hasselblad 500C, but I don't want to start before making sure opening it up will not destroy it immediately. I know the Hassie will mostly work like an old view camera that way, but that's ok. It's how I wokd anyway. Any information by anyone who has any experience in something like this will be appreciated.
John

 

[nkjin]

Welcome, John. I've worked on and adapted quite a few older camera systems over the years, and I'd definitely approach the Credo 40 carefully before opening it up. The mechanical side of adapting a Mamiya-mount back to a 500C is one thing, but maintaining the correct flange relationship and alignment is going to be critical. Even a small change in registration can create problems, particularly with a digital sensor.

As far as disassembling the Credo itself, I haven't had that particular back apart, so I wouldn't want to speculate about the internal construction or what might be easily damaged. These backs can have some pretty delicate connections and assemblies that aren't obvious until you're inside them.

That said, I think it's a worthwhile project now that these older backs are becoming much more accessible. I'd be interested to hear what you find once you get into it. If someone here has a service manual or has already had a Credo 40 apart, that would probably be the best place to start.