Hello,

Here is a question I received from new member Tom Eggett (UK) via the forum, as his membership was being processed:

Using a Bell and Howell model 625 16mm projector not been used for 8 years I have been going through my late dads film after about 30 minutes it screeches and the film stops burning a frame in the process I reverse the film then start again but only for a minute if I leave it for say an hour it seems OK but then the problem starts again any ideas please.

Tom, I am not familiar with this model projector, but I am hopeful one of our other members can assist you.....

My mistake it is bell & Howell model 652 sorry

Thomas
It sounds that the drive belt has stretched and is not making tight contact.
It will need a new belt.
What country do you live in?

Well I have since checked the back of the projector and the model number is 658 the problem screeching to a halt film all jammed appears from what I have been reading is cracked internal cogs typical for B&H projectors so I'm now at a standstill shame as I only had two more of the large family reels to check or maybe it is the belt what ever it I assume will cost a lot to sort if there is anyone out there doing repairs end of line I guess time to offer the projector for free?

You can get the projector serviced by Kevin Brown. KB Cine in Nottingham. He will fit a brand new worm gear, belts, and sort any other problems. When he has finished it will be as good as the day it left the factory. Will cost about £200, or £300 if you can upgrade the lamp to a modern one. It's well worth the money . B&H are good machines.

The Bell & Howell scourge, a cracked worm.
I have used Kevin Brown for over 10 years to keep my fleet of projectors on the move.
Robert mentions a lamp upgrade. The 658 uses an A1/235 lamp which is obsolete and difficult to find, and if found, rather expensive. Also, the separate reflector does often loose its reflectivity.
Kevin can do an upgrade to use the modern A1/259 (ELC) lamp which is widely obtainable. This I recommend.