The extra long, adjustable bellows on Omega D-5 enlargers allows it to accommodate lenses from 50mm to 150mm without the need for extended lens cones as required on D-2 enlargers. The male dovetail is part of the adjustable bellows system. It attaches to the back of the lens stage casting, allowing the lens stage to move up and down on the bellows adjustment track (female dovetail). For most of its production, the D-5 was equipped with a brass dovetail like the one pictured. However, for a number of years, Omega replaced the brass part with one made of black plastic. This proved to be a mistake. Not only were the plastic dovetails prone to break, they also flexed. So, for example, if your enlarger was properly aligned with a 50mm lens on it, mount a much heavier 150mm lens and it's out of alignment.
If your D-5 still has one of the plastic dovetails, we strongly recommend that you replace it with a brass one. These dovetails are supplied complete with spring.
Replacing this part may require adding or removing shims, lubrication, proper adjustment and realigning the enlarger. Instructions are not provided but we will gladly assist if you have difficulty figuring it out.
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