Description
Bell & Howell Filmo 031397 Electric Motor 70-HR 70-TMR Movie Camera 115V 8-64fps
The Bell & Howell Filmo 031397 is an original electric motor accessory designed to replace or supplement the spring-wind drive on the classic Filmo 70-series 16mm motion picture cameras, specifically the 70-HR and 70-TMR models. Running on 115V AC or DC power, it allows the camera to film continuously without repeated winding, and its variable frame rate range of 8 to 64 fps makes it suitable for both normal-speed and high-speed cinematography work.
Specifications & What's Included
- Manufacturer: Bell & Howell, Chicago — Made in U.S.A.
- Part Number: 031397
- Compatible Cameras: Filmo 70-HR and 70-TMR 16mm motion picture cameras
- Power: 115V AC/DC
- Current Draw: 9 Amps
- Speed Range: 8 to 64 fps (variable)
- Power Connector: 3-pin male circular connector
- Drive Shaft: Output shaft present and intact
- Mounting: Integral mounting arms/feet for attachment to camera body
- Includes: Motor unit only — no power cable or accessories
Applications
The Bell & Howell Filmo 70 series is one of the most iconic and durable 16mm film cameras ever made, used extensively from the 1920s through the mid-20th century by newsreel cameramen, documentary filmmakers, the U.S. military, and scientific researchers. The spring-wound design of the Filmo made it lightweight and self-contained, but for studio or field work requiring extended continuous takes, an electric motor like this 031397 was essential. It couples directly to the camera's drive mechanism and allows precise speed control across the 8–64 fps range, enabling slow-motion and time-lapse capture as well as standard 24 fps sound-sync filming when paired with a synchronous power source. Today, restored and working Filmo 70-series cameras remain popular with vintage film enthusiasts, cinematographers shooting on 16mm for aesthetic reasons, and collectors of professional cinema equipment. Functional original motors for these cameras are increasingly hard to find and are sought after for restoration projects and active shooting rigs.
This Bell & Howell Filmo 031397 Electric Motor for the 70-HR and 70-TMR motion picture cameras is in used condition and shows significant cosmetic wear consistent with its age and service history. The exterior paint is heavily worn with notable flaking and peeling across the motor body and end cap, and the cast housing shows surface patina and discoloration throughout. The drive shaft, mounting arms, and 3-pin power connector all appear intact and undamaged. It has not been powered up or tested at our facility, but it was pulled from a working environment where it was previously in use. Please view our photo set and contact us if you have any questions.
Warranty Information
Additional Information
Repair Manual (Mangled): |
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Brand: |
Bell & Howell |
Model: |
031397 |
MPN: |
031397 |
Type: |
Electric Motor for Motion Picture Camera |
SKU: |
27602 |
Compatible With: |
Bell & Howell Filmo 70-HR, 70-TMR |
Voltage: |
115V AC/DC |
Speed Range: |
8 to 64 fps |
Current (Amps): |
9 A |
Cycles: |
AC/DC (60 Hz AC or DC) |
Connector Type: |
3-pin male circular connector |
Country/Region of Manufacture: |
United States |
Seller Notes: |
Motor unit only — no cables or accessories included. |
Condition Notes: |
This Bell & Howell Filmo 031397 Electric Motor shows significant cosmetic wear — heavy paint flaking and surface patina throughout. Shaft, mounting arms, and connector appear intact. Not tested at our facility; pulled from prior working use. |
California Prop 65 Warning: |
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead and lead compounds, and DEHP (a phthalate), which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Go to P65Warnings.ca.gov |