Fixing a Vintage 8mm Projector - Watch the Bell & Howell 461B Transformation!

In this video, we're going to be taking a look at the Bell & Howell 461B motion picture projector. This projector is a vintage piece that needs some TLC, so let's get started!
This projector is a piece that was given to me to take a look at from a co-worker. I have no idea what I am doing but I get my way through the project while learning a lot about these old machines. To my surprise, it's not just a stuck wheel for the auto feed that is the problem. It goes much deeper as I find broken parts on the reel spindles and have to figure out how to repair it without being able to purchase new parts.

[@leeproulx7412]

Success! Loved watching your video. I’ll bet if I look in the dictionary for the definition of the word “patience”, your picture would be there. You certainly went to great lengths to repair that projector. The woman must be thrilled that you were able to fix it, along with the added bonus of being able to watch your video and see you restore her dream, of seeing long-gone events from her family. Outstanding fix-it skills!

[@NorthernHomeGarage]

I’m sure she’ll be very happy!

[@treeschwartz4968]

This is an awesome fix!! Great perseverance!

[@NorthernHomeGarage]

Thanks for the kind words. I’m glad you enjoyed it.

[@gargantuaism]

I have an old Bell and Howell 8 mm projector, "The Director Series". It has a smell that is not like anything else. The smell is exactly the same since 1970. I am pretty sure it still works.

[@NorthernHomeGarage]

Ah the good O’l days. Thanks for watching.

[@greggivens1293]

Great video! At around the 11:55 mark, you mention you had to adjust the clutch actuator. I have an issue where the take-up reel barely spins and I'm wondering if I adjust the clutch if that will help it spin. I have to manually spin the take-up real or the tape ends up on the floor. Are you able to describe how I can adjust the clutch? You said it was a bit of a dance. I'm assuming it's on the inside but then what?

[@NorthernHomeGarage]

Thanks for the question. I had to tighten or loosen the tiny screw on the back of the reel hub on the opposite side of the arm. If you tightened the screw, it will compress the wave washers inside and give the wheel more torque to turn the reel. If you loosened it, the opposite would happen. Be carful if you still have the plastic screws. They are very fragile. I hope this helps!!

[@adrianrobey7716]

Where in the hell do you live that in May, you are in a parka with visible breath? I’d gladly swap homes for the “summer”.

[@NorthernHomeGarage]

Ha ha. Northern Ontario is a beautiful place. Thanks for watching.