How to Correct Film Spool Tension Problems in a Holga 120 Camera

Holgas are great cameras, but they tend to suffer from loose film spools. This can be very disruptive to your photo process. Follow the suggestions below to fix problems with film spool tension in Holga 120 cameras.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cardboard piece 3/8 inch by 1 inch
• Adhesive foam piece 3/8 inch by 1 inch
• Metal piece 3/8 inch by 1 inch
• Vice grips
• Weld glue

1. Remove the back of the camera to begin. Slide the back piece down and loosen from the metal clamps. Looking into the back of the camera, there will be a film spool on the left and on the right.

2. Use a small piece of cardboard, about 1 inch by 3/8 inch. Fold it and insert into the small area between the spool and the bottom of the camera. This is the quickest, cheapest and most temporary way to fix the problem.

3. Cut a small piece of adhesive foam into the right shape and size. Making sure the foam is the correct thickness, insert into the area between the spool and the bottom of the camera.

4. Bend a small piece of metal in half lengthways using vice grips. Glue the piece using weld glue into the space between the spool and the camera. This is the most time consuming, but most effective way to fix tension problems.

5. Replace the the back of the camera. Make sure the clips slide back into place. Using tape to secure the back is not a bad idea.

Tips & Warnings

• If fixing with a cardboard piece, do not glue.
• If using adhesive foam, use one that's easily removed since foam wears down and would eventually lose its tension again.
• If fixing with a metal piece, let the weld glue set for at least 3 hours.