Photo equipment from the 1980s: Repair projects and recommendations

[Andreas Thaler]

I would like to bring together a selection of my previous contributions here in the hope that they will help readers with their work or inspire them to get involved in repairs.

It is always worth trying to repair something, because if you do nothing, a camera or lens will definitely remain broken

In any case, you learn something new from every project, no matter how it turns out.

Good luck with your work!

This list is constantly being expanded.


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All information provided without guarantee and use at your own risk.

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Canon

SLRs

Buying a Canon T90: What should you pay attention to?

Herald of the EOS generation: the mighty Canon T90. The Canon T90 from 1986 is described as the most advanced SLR that is focused purely manually. It is largely fully equipped and part of the Canon FD system with a large number of excellent lenses. Due to the many functions - including a...

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Canon T90 and T70: Rescuing victims of leaked battery electrolyte

From a collection of cameras, I chose these two T90s and one T70. They all have one thing in common: their battery compartments cannot be opened because the batteries have leaked. The battery acid has cemented the battery holders and the battery compartment cover of the T70. When I tried...

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Canon T90: Cleaning the mirror magnet

I have a T90 here whose mirror magnet no longer works. The usual symptom of a quiet clicking sound and a flashing arrow in the display occurs. The recommended cure of removing the front cover and activating the - easily accessible - magnet with a magnetized screwdriver tip works with patience...

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Canon T90: Advanced cleaning of stuck shutter blades

Sticky shutter at EOS Nano Burger gives in „Manage Your EOS Camera’s Sticky Shutter“ https://www.instructables.com/Manage-Your-EOS-Cameras-Sticky-Shutter/ a guide on how to clean stuck shutter blades in a Canon EOS. The reason for the sticking is a small damper under the vertically running...

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Canon T90: Fixing dropouts on the control wheel

A more annoying than serious problem with the Canon T90 is the control wheel on the handle, which turns in notches that sometimes no longer make contact. You then have to turn the wheel one or two positions further in order to be able to set a shutter speed or an aperture value, for example. I...

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Canon T90: Defective display replaced

Checking my little T90 family, I saw that one family member was having problems with her display on the top of the case. When the camera was switched on, but also every time any button was pushed or the selector wheel was turned the display showed signs and symbols that did not match the...

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Canon T90 shows the error messages HELP and EEE: Tracking down the last major problem

One of the most common problems with the T90 is still unsolved: the shutter blocking, accompanied by the messages „HELP“ in the viewfinder and „EEE“ on the display. Until now, I assumed that the cause of this problem was dirty magnets for controlling the shutter. The T90 has two of these...

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Canon T90: recommendations and notes

Based on my previous (repair) experiences with the Canon T90 with regard to preservation/problems/repair options, I would like to give a summary of the following recommendations/hints: Sticky shutter - gummed-up shutter blades: Can be permanently repaired, damper in the shutter area that has...

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Canon T90: How we get through time

After extensive study of hybrid magnets, sticky shutters, EEE and HELP, eleven T90s, all of which are fit for work, go into their maintenance program. Once a month there is a battery pack and a test film in turn to check film transport, automatic rewind and displays. In HIGH mode, a film...

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Canon T90: Replacing the mirror magnet

The mirror of one of my T90s didn't want to move. The symptom is well known: When you press the shutter button, an arrow flashes in the display and you hear a quiet ticking sound. Otherwise the camera remains still. I opened the camera and tapped the mirror magnet with a magnetized...

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Canon T90: Power supply restored

Today was check of my T90 family. Some with no findings, some with the shutter blades stuck together, one with a crazy display and this one that shows nothing on the display after switching it on. That struck me as odd, since it had worked the last time. So something must have changed in...

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Canon T90: Shutter removal procedure

One problem for which I at least do not know of a solution is inactive shutter magnets in the Canon T90, which has two of them. The problem manifests itself in the camera releasing the mirror but the shutter remains closed. "EEE" is displayed on the camera display and "HELP" in the viewfinder...

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Lenses

Canon nFD 50 mm/1.8: Cleaning the lenses

For this I follow Kenneth (mikeno62) on YouTube, who explains all the steps in an hour-long video: I really like Kenneth's videos. Not only is his productivity impressive - new videos on lens service are published regularly - but also the calmness with which he goes about his work In two...

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Canon nFD 28/2: Outsmarting and cleaning the aperture blades

For years, oil has been shining at me when I look at the aperture blades of my fast wide-angle lens. And this has saddened me for years. This should be over now 👍 One of my favorite lenses and quite heavy. The rear optical unit can be easily unscrewed and is already removed here...

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Miscellaneous

Canon New FD: from bayonet ring to aperture key

A special feature of Canon New FD lenses is that their aperture remains fixed at a value as long as they are not attached to a camera. The aperture blades cannot then be moved and checking the optics and aperture blades with an LED lamp is only possible to a limited extent. “Aperture key”...

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Leica

Leica R3 ELECTRONIC: Recommendations and notes

The Leica R3 ELECTRONIC was the first Leitz camera from the R series and was introduced in 1976. It was developed and manufactured in cooperation with Minolta. Technically, it is closely related to the Minolta XE. One variant is the Leica R3 MOT ELECTRONIC, which is essentially identical in...

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Leica R3 MOT ELECTRONIC: Jumping metering needle repaired; front panel fixed with LEICA lettering

Today I unpacked the Leica R3 MOT ELECTRONIC that @miha sent me some time ago for an attempt to repair. After practicing on a well-worn R3 MOT for the last few days, I felt sufficiently prepared to get to work. See the story here describing all the technical details and guesses where the...

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Leica R3 ELECTRONIC: Stiff mirror mechanism repaired

I have a nice R3 here, in which the electronics are obviously still working properly (lucky!), but the mechanism in the mirror box seems to be resinified. The mirror only works as it should when I place the camera on the prism. Otherwise it will stop halfway I know from a training R3 that...

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Leica R3: Mission Aperture Priority

The Minolta XE-1 (XE, XE-7) is discredited because its electronics become unreliable over the decades. Known symptoms are a jumping metering needle in the viewfinder and incorrect shutter speeds in aperture priority mode. Solid, fascinating technology, beautiful, but with problems: Minolta's...

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Leica R3 MOT ELECTRONIC: Heading into the unknown

Our colleague @miha asked me if I would like to look at his R3 MOT. There is a problem with a jumping needle in the viewfinder. Maybe also the aperture priority mode is concerned. I was hesitant about whether I wanted to do this. Because I didn't have a Leica R on the table yet. And although...

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Minolta

SLRs/Rangefinder

Minolta X-700/500/300 (700/570/370): Recommendations and notes

Timeless, robust and reliable classics: the three Minolta X SLRs from the 80s Based on my previous (repair) experiences with the Minolta X-700/500/300 (X-700/570/370) cameras with regard to preservation/problems/repair options, I would like to give a summary of the following...

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Minolta XG-M: Replacing the electrolytic capacitors

For my planning: Are you interested in how to replace the four electrolytic capacitors on a Minolta XG-M? In my opinion, many specimens are likely to be affected by leaking electrolytic capacitors, including damage to the surrounding conductor paths caused by electrolyte. I have an older...

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Minolta X-700 tutorial: Winding lever issue - replacement of Winding base plate B

With intensively used Minolta X-700 it can happen that the winding lever no longer can be locked in the unfolded position. It always folds back into its original position. The winding lever keeps folding back. Not a serious problem, but an annoying one, especially when you want to cock the...

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Minolta X-700 mini tutorial: Removing and installing the focusing screen

As part of the renovation of a Minolta X-700, I removed and reinstalled the focus screen for cleaning. I made a little tutorial out of it. It might also help with other cameras: Post in thread 'Minolta X-700: A renovation project'...

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Have you just purchased a Minolta X-700? Do a Check & Clean first!

Since I'm currently working on a few Minolta X cameras and focusing on the Minolta X-700, I thought a "Check & Clean" tutorial might be useful for you 🙂 Today I was busy with this X-700. I had no idea if it worked. Anyway it was obvious that it was dirty. But otherwise? So let's take a...

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Electrolytic capacitor replacement on a Minolta X-300s

Of the 13 Minolta X cameras that are waiting to be checked here, see https://www.photrio.com/forum/threads/interested-in-minolta-x-camera-repair-reports.202857/#post-2739628 I was able to get candidate 1/13, a Minolta X-300s back to work 🙂 Issues: - Camera cannot be wound up. - LEDs in the...

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Minolta X-300 put back into service

An X-300 with some signs of wear and a dent on the side of the top cover, a bit dirty - a basement find, as the previous owner told me. The shutter is cocked, the LEDs in the viewfinder remain dark when the trigger is tapped, pressing the trigger does not release the shutter. Ok, let's see...

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Minolta X-700 electronics: A closer look

I'd like to take a closer look at the X-700's electronics in the coming days. On the one hand, I would like to understand how the circuit basically works, and on the other hand, I am interested in details that can be seen on the flexible circuit board. It's always fascinating to me what...

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Minolta X-700: LED and trigger problem, capacitor and IC locations

Another broken X-700: LEDs in the viewfinder light up when you press the shutter button Shutter does not fire when the shutter button is pressed, LEDs go out LEDs can then be „tapped“ again OFF/ON main switch is not required for this In post „Minolta X-700: Electronics fault > spare parts...

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Minolta X-700: Removing the mirror box and shutter

Today I would like to take a closer look at the mirror box and shutter of the X-700. To do this, the camera must be partially dismantled. It's a bit of work, but if you are familiar with a screwdriver and soldering iron, it can be done without any problems. Tutorial bei Gene Pate, Learn...

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Minolta X-700: A renovation project

As announced, the first project in the new year will be the renovation of an X-700 with obvious moisture damage. Today the cheaply purchased and well used X-700 arrived and I did an initial inspection. The goal is not to get the camera back to full function at all costs, but to see what damage...

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Minolta XG-M: Dissection

I took a closer look at the inner workings of an abandoned XG-M for parts. So far good, every screw (almost only cross-Head screws) could be loosened with my JIS screwdrivers without cursing 👍 In one case - it was one of the longer screws for attaching the camera strap eyelet to the housing -...

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Minolta XM with automatic viewfinder AE-S: electronic contact problems resolved

My Minolta XM recently got an AE-S automatic viewfinder - completely by chance. The viewfinder was offered to me when I bought a Canon T90. Since this viewfinder is very rare, of course I couldn't say no. In addition, the piece was in mint condition 😍 The AE-S has a silicon measuring cell...

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Minolta XG-M: Shutter problem resolved but be careful

I checked the functionality of my XG-M to see whether replacing the four electrolytic capacitors was successful in the long term, see https://www.photrio.com/forum/threads/minolta-xg-m-replacing-the-electrolytic-capacitors.203831/ After a few releases, the mirror remained up and the LED...

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Minolta (Maxxum, Alpha) 9000 AF: Removal of the mirrorbox/assembly, investigating the aperture issue, replacing the sticky damper in the shutter unit

An SLR from 1985 that is not only beautiful but also technically innovative, but which you don't read much about: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minolta_Maxxum_9000 Inspired by @Paul Howell in...

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Minolta XG-M: Adjusting the shutter

At the end of last year I tried to solve a shutter problem on my Minolta XG-M. It got stuck when winding and the shutter blocked: https://www.photrio.com/forum/threads/minolta-xg-m-shutter-problem-resolved-but-be-careful.203843/ I was able to solve the problem, but I also worked on the two...

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Minolta Hi-Matic GF: Corrosion fixed in the battery compartment, impressions from inside the camera

I already had this small Hi-Matic on the table last year. The previous owner had probably forgotten the two AA batteries in the battery compartment, which had leaked. The two batteries were so swollen that I could only pull them out of the compartment with force using combination pliers and a...

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Lenses

Minolta MD 35-135/3.5-4.5: Rear lens and aperture register cleaned

This Minolta zoom is a recurring patient. Its rear lens had already become cloudy and the aperture transmission often got stuck when the tube was pulled out. Here is my report on the service from December 2023 describing how I cleaned the lens...

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Minolta MD 75-200/4.5 (III): The so far unsuccessful fight against lame aperture blades

This zoom has slow aperture blades, which I was able to make move again for a short time using different techniques. I'm still looking for a sustainable solution. Maybe someone has ideas? A long journey that has no end I bought the zoom for EUR 10 (USD 11) which is not only pretty but also...

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Minolta MC W. Rokkor-HG 35/2.8: Removing and cleaning the aperture blades

Since I couldn't completely remove oil from the aperture blades of my MC 35/2.8 when installed, I tackled it thoroughly. The aperture register with the aperture blades is removed and cleaned of oil using Zippo lighter fluid. The candidate Removing the optical components and removing the...

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Minolta MC W. Rokkor-HG 35/2.8: Cleaning the aperture blades

This article refers to https://www.photrio.com/forum/threads/minolta-mc-w-rokkor-hg-35-2-8-removing-and-cleaning-the-aperture-blades.203610/ which also deals with cleaning the aperture blades, but I removed there the blades so that I could thoroughly clean the aperture register. Here I show...

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Minolta MD Tele Rokkor 135/2.8 (II): Restored from total loss

A 135 from the collection of defective lenses that I brought into the house some time ago. It had been through a lot or a lot had been done to it. The aperture blades are no longer in place. The rear lens is heavily dirty. A dent on the filter thread was obviously roughly bent...

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Minolta MD 35-135/3.5-4.5 (III): Rear lens cleaned. How I got an excellent magnifying glass

This new addition was presented to me in almost new condition, but with a cloudy rear lens, when I examined it: The lens, along with another, is housed in a unit that is screwed into place. Using a spanner wrench that I inserted into the two grooves on the top ring of the unit, I was able...

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Minolta MD Tele Rokkor 135/3.5 (II): Fungus removal and cleaning

The next project to be brought to the table is this MD 135/3.5, which is infested with fungus and is otherwise in mint condition. It remains to be seen whether there are any permanent chemical burns on the optics. Get rid of the fungus! ⚔️ In the third photo, the white spots on the...

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Minolta MD 200/4 Tele Rokkor: Rubber coating on the focus ring adjusted, optics cleaned

This MD 200/4 comes from a collection of defective lenses. The Rubber coating on the focus ring was overstretched and no longer closed flush with its lead. Presumably the effect of heavy use, as signs of wear can also be seen on the outside of the tube. Unfortunately I neglected to...

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Minolta MC Tele Rokkor 300/4.5: Slow aperture fixed

Heavy quality, still in a good design, this tele has been sitting unused in the closet for a long time: The aperture blades move slowly when the aperture ring is turned; when the open aperture lever is pushed, the aperture remains closed: When you look at it from the front, you can see...

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Minolta MD 35-70/3.5: Blocking fixed, fungus removed, ring replaced

An MD 35-70/3.5 was sitting on my table looking pretty unsightly and sick. Actually I just wanted to look through lens repair candidats and leave the screwdriver in the box. But it was full of dirt, the zoom and aperture rings were difficult or impossible to move, a screw was missing from the...

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Minolta MD 50/1.7 (III): Lens cleaning

The - probably - first lens that came into my possession, along with a Minolta X-700. That was 1985. In the meantime some dust has accumulated on the inner lenses. This is supposed to disappear 👍 As always, I try to find disassembly information before opening a lens. This is intended to...

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Minolta MD Tele Rokkor 135/2.8 (II): Make one out of two

Recently I dedicated myself to the second Minolta MD Tele Rokkor 135/2.8 (II) from my collection of defective lenses. The rear lens surfaces of this example were also massively dirty. Unfortunately, in this case I was unable to achieve satisfactory cleaning. The optical assembly retained a...

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Minolta MD Tele Rokkor 200/4 (II): Lenses cleaned, stiffness fixed

Recently I dedicated myself to this beautiful Minolta MD Tele Rokkor 200(4 (II) from a collection of defective lenses that I had purchased. There was bad contamination in the rear optical assembly and the focus ring could only be turned the last bit to infinity with gentle force. I started...

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Accessoires

Minolta Auto Winder G: Service and repair

My next main project will be service and repair for the Minolta Autowinder D and G as well as the Minolta Motor Drive MD-1. The topic follows on from my previous work and articles on Minolta X here. The D Version is for Minolta XD, the G version for Minolta X/XG and the MD-1 for Minolta...

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Minolta lens cap for the front lens: fix for broken spring

Original lens caps for Minolta MD, whether for the front or rear lens, are relatively rare and therefore expensive. Inferior replacements are no joy. It is therefore worth repairing a damaged lid. While the back covers are made from one piece and are therefore robust, there is a weak point in...

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Minolta MD-1 motor drive: Release problems fixed

A Minolta MD-1 motor drive for the Minolta X series, which has misfires on the second release switch laterally and which I treated for the same reason last year. In series operation on an X-500, it stops after a few shots and the red control LED on the back lights up. I suspect contact...

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Dissection Minolta NP-90M battery pack for Minolta (Maxxum) 9000; MD-90, BP-90M

The Minolta (Maxxum) 9000 comes with the Motor Drive MD-90 as an accessory, which can optionally be operated with the rechargeable NP-90M battery pack. This is a high-quality part that is electronically connected to the motor drive and provides a portrait format shutter release. The NP-90M...

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Nikon

SLRs

Nikon F4: Recommendations and notes

The Nikon F4 from 1988 is arguably Nikon's most capable SLR for manual and AF lenses. Both types can be used without restrictions. Probably the most valuable F-SLR from Nikon, the F4, which is still an ingenious camera for analogue 35mm photography today. For manual lenses, the AF focusing...

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Tutorial Nikon F3(AF): Replacing the LCD

On the Nikon F3 and its versions, the LCD that is reflected in the viewfinder can fail partially or completely. Corrosion of the LCD connections could be a cause, or the LCD sandwich no longer seals tightly; black spots can also appear that make the digits unreadable. The only solution here is...

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Nikon F3/T: LCD replaced

A project that has occupied me for years without being able to tackle it - for lack of a replacement display and know-how. Now it's implemented 😀 With my most beautiful F3/T (never used before), I had to watch the LCD display in the viewfinder slowly but steadily disappear. At first, only...

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Nikon F4: Upper LCD replaced

Today I opened some packages of cameras that I received last year. There was also a Nikon F4S that I hadn't even thought about. Clearly used extensively, signs of use, but with a flawless viewfinder LCD at the top and a LCD at the bottom with only a small dark spot. Unfortunately, the fact...

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Nikon DP-20 viewfinder (for Nikon F4): LCD examined, case disassembled and reassembled

After replacing the top LCD in the viewfinder of a Nikon F4, I wanted to know what the procedure is for the bottom LCD. To do this, I dismantled a functional DP-20, the standard viewfinder for the F4, whose display is badly bleeding. It has black and green spots that partially cover the...

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Nikon F4: Mission Aperture Lever - two ways to fix the aperture problem

{Moderator note 12 Jan 25: five threads on the F4/F4S aperture lever repair have been merged into the present thread. You may encounter one or two dead links to 'other' threads. The posts they pointed to, are now all part of this thread, which mostly still follows the journey in a logical and...

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Nikon F4: Mission Aperture Lever - two ways to fix the aperture problem

{Moderator note 12 Jan 25: five threads on the F4/F4S aperture lever repair have been merged into the present thread. You may encounter one or two dead links to 'other' threads. The posts they pointed to, are now all part of this thread, which mostly still follows the journey in a logical and...

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Nikon F4: Mission Aperture Lever - two ways to fix the aperture problem

{Moderator note 12 Jan 25: five threads on the F4/F4S aperture lever repair have been merged into the present thread. You may encounter one or two dead links to 'other' threads. The posts they pointed to, are now all part of this thread, which mostly still follows the journey in a logical and...

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Nikon F-301: Shutter replacement

I won't be able to do anything more for this Nikon F-301, but a look inside will be interesting. Coming soon here 😎

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Nikon F3 Press: Exposure compensation wheel replacement and cleaning

An intensively used F3 Press, as the exterior suggests, sits on my table: There are no dents, the interior is clean, the titanium foil shutter cloth is without damage. Dust and dirt have accumulated over time. Not dramatic with the F3P, as it is a special version for reportage use...

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Nikon F3 and special models: Care, service and repair

Here in Vienna, some F3 and F3 special models have been waiting for care, service and repair for some time. The respective conditions vary: Nikon F3AF: (in the picture top left) Obviously unused, all functions OK, the mirror stop damper and the light seals are sticky and falling apart. Nikon...

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Nikon F3P (Press): Stuck mirror

A well-used Nikon F3P sometimes keeps the mirror up after the shutter is released. I suspect that it is due to resinification/a lack of lubrication. This time I will not attempt a shortcut, but a repair. To do this I will have to remove the mirror box, which is connected to the front part of...

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Nikon F3: The most valuable component - and two decisions

You don't give up on a Nikon F3 lightly. If it has a fault, you look for it - or a workshop that can fix it. However, there are limits here. You can't reasonably bring a defective, partially disassembled F3 back to life. The effort involved would be too high, not to mention the missing...

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Lenses

Micro-NIKKOR 55/2.8 Ai-S: Aperture blades cleaned the quick way

The Nikkor Micro 55/2.8 tends to get oil contaminated on its aperture blades. The tutorials I found on the web show removing the aperture register, disassembling it and cleaning the aperture blades individually. Then everything is put back together. This takes a certain amount of effort, and...

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Nikkor AF 24-120/3.5-5.6 D: Slow autofocus at focal length 24 mm (Nikon F4S)

Today my reporter zoom surprised me by focusing slowly and jerkily on the Nikon F4S at a focal length of 24 mm in autofocus mode. If I turn the focal length ring slightly towards a longer focal length, focusing works again at all distances even at 24 mm. If the metering system switches off...

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Nikon Series E 50/1.8: Disassembly, recovering of a body and cleaning

Today I went through some new arrivals, all of which should be free of issues. The two Tamrons Adaptall-2, an 80-210/3.8~4 and a 200/3.5 are mint, the Minolta MD 28/2.8 (II) as well, the Braun VarioZoom 340M SCA had some coating on the battery contacts and the Nikon Series E 50/1.8 turned out...

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Nikkor AF 20/2.8 D: Stuck aperture blades, lens clouding

I could purchase this lens cheaply. The aperture blades are likely oily and there is some clouding around the rear lenses. I looked at what I can do for the nice 20 👍 Externally in mint condition. The clouding in the rear optical component under focused LED light. ... and under...

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Nikkor 50/1.8 Ai: Service

Convinced that helicoids do not always have to be separated for cleaning and re-greasing, I got to work. A Nikkor 50/1.8 Ai turned quite dry when focusing. Some dust had also accumulated on the inner lenses over the years. I wanted to remedy all of this. Glow of dust in the LED light...

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Accessoires

Nikon MD-12 Motor Drive renovated

A friend had asked me to look at his Nikon MD-12 Motor Drive. The Motor Drive for the Nikon FE(2) and FM(2) hasn't been available for a long time. A contact in the battery compartment was corroded but was poorly cleaned. I didn't say yes right away because I usually only work on my own stuff...

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Nikon MD-4 Motor Drive: Issues with rotary switch and rewind resolved, cleaning

The MD-4 on my table has been through a lot. It accompanied the F3 Press on which I replaced the exposure compensation wheel. What's even more pleasing is that it works on the F3 Press and only has minor problems: The rotary switch around the trigger for setting the motor operating mode (L...

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Nikon MD-4 Motor Drive: Operating mode selector fixed

This post follows up: https://www.photrio.com/forum/threads/nikon-md-4-motor-drive-issues-with-rotary-switch-and-rewind-resolved-cleaning.203356/ When I checked the motor drive, I saw that the attached Nikon F3P fired continuously not only in C(ontinous) but also in S(ingle) mode. That...

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Nikon MD-4 Motor Drive: A dissection

I wanted to know exactly and dismantled my practice MD-4. Actually, at first I was only interested in how I could remove the battery contact plate in the battery compartment. Another MD-4 has traces of corrosion at this point that I cannot satisfactorily remove from the outside. And then I...

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Nikon MN-2 Battery Unit: Dirty job

An MD-4 motor drive with Ni-Cd battery pack MN-2 came to me. As defective - the way I like it, because there is something to see and to do 👍 The battery pack provides 16.8 volts for the motor. Pretty strong. Coincidentally, the associated service manual is available 😉 Here the battery...

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Nikon MB-23 (for Nikon F4): Adhesive removed and rubber cover re-glued

A few years ago I bought an MB-23 battery grip for the Nikon F4, which with the grip becomes the F4E. As good as new, never used, in original packaging. An opportunity. The rubber cover of the base plate is glued on, some of the glue that was visible on the side didn't bother me. Until I...

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Collection of spare parts for Nikon F3 and F3/T including a F3 Pin Registration (not for sale)

I managed this year - more or less by chance - to get a collection of spare parts for the F3 and F3/T including some F3 bodies, one of which is very rare. The spare parts are originally packaged, unused from workshop storage, including two complete electronic boards in the box. A remarkable...

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Nikon MK-1 Firing rate converter: A look inside and repair of the trigger (preannouncement)

Two flagships and rivals of the 1980s: Canon New F-1 with Motor Drive FN and Nikon F3 with MD-4 and MK-1, which is mounted below the motor drive. The Nikon F3 and its exclusive motor drive MD-4 are a perfectly matched pair. The MD-4 not only cocks the shutter and transports the film, but...

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Olympus

Olympus Zuiko 65-200/4 Auto-Zoom: Strong lens clouding removed, infinity adjustment

For years I lived under the belief that nothing and no one could help my Zuiko Zoom. One of the rear lenses was so cloudy that only a milky disc could be seen in the LED light. It couldn't be used for photographic tasks. Why did I believe that? Because an Olympus expert told me so. And of...

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Olympus Zuiko Auto-S 50/1.8: Front lens group cannot be separated

A 50/1.8 Zuiko, heavily molded, was quickly disassembled: The rear lens group consists of two lenses lying one on top of the other that are easy to clean: The unpleasant surprise comes from the front. The front lens group forms an optical unit - literally: The fungus sits between...

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Olympus Zuiko MC Auto-Fisheye 16/3.5: Lens damage professionally repaired

A rare fisheye in condition A, unfortunately with a damaged lens inside, namely the second element from the back. Images shot with the lens were massively softened on the OM-4 Ti: The damage was not on the lens surface, but underneath/in between. I suspected a problem with the lens...

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Tamron

Tamron 35-70/3.5 17A Adaptall-2: Rescue mission failed

The 35-70 came to me with fungus on the lenses and a stiff zoom ring. Externally well used, some grains of sand, not cleaned for a long time. I got to work. The optical elements were removed and cleaned, except for the front lens unit, which I didn't have to fully dismantle because the...

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Tamron SP 28-135/4~4.5: Aperture control repaired but a part remains

I noticed it on my first trip with the zoom: the smallest aperture of 32 was not formed on my Nikon F3/T. It didn't close or open completely, but the next smaller 22 did without any problems. I debated for a long time whether I should try to fix this. Because I don't take photos with the...

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Tamron Adaptall-2 adapter for Minolta MD: Aperture lever released

The aperture lever on the adapter for Minolta MD is stuck. So I open the beautiful and valuable piece of precision engineering. This retaining ring had become loose. After tightening, the aperture lever works again. +++ All information provided without guarantee and use at your own...

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Tamron SP 60-300/3.8~4.5 Adaptall-2: Cloudiness and separation, replacement of lenses

An SP 60-300 with a heavily clouded lens and separation is on my table. Beautiful, mechanically ok, but with an optical handicap ... ... which occurs in a place that is difficult to reach ... ... although I'm wondering whether the clouding is between the cemented lenses ... …...

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Tamron 135/2.5 Adaptall-2: Aperture function restored

I actually didn't want this nice telephoto as a repair project, but rather as a problem-free access to my Tamron collection. But things turned out differently and I realized once again that every lens is designed differently. With this telephoto, which was highly praised for its imaging...

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Tokina

Tokina RMC 35-105/3.5~4.3 (FD): Service

It has to end at some point, says my friend, the Photo Bear. And so we would like to use this well-used Tokina to show you what we have learned in the last few months when it comes to lens repair and service. Then we want to take care of new photo equipment projects, which again involve doing...

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Tokina RMC 35-105/3.5~4.3: Slow aperture, simply fixed. Maybe an introduction to DIY?

Fixing a problem with a camera device doesn't always have to be a one-day project. And you certainly don't have to hire a workshop that does a good job, saves your own time, but of course also charges for it. Here I have a Tokina 35-105 on my table: The overall condition is excellent...

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Tokina RMC 35-70/3.5: The final project; general notes for servicing lenses

To complete my self-training in lens service this year, I serviced this little zoom from Tokina with mount for Nikkor Ai. All topics discussed so far have become current: disassembly/assembly cleaning the optics external care cleaning and re-greasing of the helicoids adjustment to infinity...

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Tokina RMC 90-230/4.5 (OM): Minor service

I received a zoom lens for a whole EUR 10,- (~ USD 11,-) 🙂 I found it on willhaben.at, the largest online platform for used items in Austria. It was offered there with a few dim pictures: Lens is untested and therefore declared defective. No guarantee or returns. „Another repair project“ I...

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Tokina RMC 25-50/4: Zoom blockage fixed, plain bearings replaced, helicoids greased

This Tokina Zoom with a connection for Minolta MD came to me for just EUR 10,-. Externally in beautiful condition, but with a blocked zoom ring and severe lens clouding. I wanted to see what I could achieve. Decorative ring off After partial dismantling I saw the cause of the blockage...

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Soligor

Soligor C/D 28-80 mm f3.8-4.8 (OM): Overhaul

A Soligor zoom came to me with an Olympus OM mount in clearly used - but not abused - condition: Here the rubber coating of the focus ring has been removed in order to explore the screw connection. The bayonet screws don't get stuck and can be loosened - a good start. The zoom is dirty...

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Vivitar

Vivitar 24/2.8 Auto Wide-Angle (MD): Aperture blades and bayonet ring deoiled

From the collection of defective lenses that I purchased some time ago, the Vivitar 24/2.8 Auto Wide-Angle is a candidate for improvement. The beautiful and heavy all-metal lens could no longer close its aperture and the aperture blades remained in the barrel. In addition, the aperture lever...

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Vivitar Series 1 VMC 24-48/3.8 Auto Zoom: Aperture issue fixed, quick aperture blades cleaning

Sometimes it's quick and easy. This beautiful, heavy and absolutely high-quality zoom from the USA with an MD connection is also a joy for the eye: The aperture lever did not release the closed aperture and the aperture blades were a bit oily. This could be fixed at the desk in less than...

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Miscellaneous

Photo equipment: Basics for getting started with DIY repairs

As others I enjoy to report on my repair efforts here, but maybe someone would like to get into the topic? The desire is there, but there is still a lack of information on how best to start, what tools are needed and how much it might cost? That can be easily clarified. But it is even more...

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Writing repair reports: A simple, fun thing!

What are you doing right now? Just tell it to a friend! Writing texts is not for everyone. If it has to be done in public in front of an audience, many people put down their pencils. Worrying that the text won't be good enough and that you won't be well received can be a major obstacle to...

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Stubborn screws: Milling out screw heads, recommendations for milling cutters

Stuck screws, secured with adhesive, that I can't loosen with solvent or heat have put one or two of my projects at risk. Because if a screw doesn't come loose, you can't go any further, e.g. dismantling a lens bayonet. To make progress, I tried using a screw extractor and a drill, but that...

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Troubleshooting the camera electronic: Simple measurements with the oscilloscope

Troubleshooting instructions in camera repair manuals make it possible to find and fix problems without detailed knowledge of a circuit or mechanism. To do this, you work through decision diagrams with yes and no and carry out the instructions, e.g. in the form of voltage measurements or...

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Documentation of repairs: Support your memory

If you sit and try to repair a camera or a lens almost every day, it can quickly happen that you forget details or assign them incorrectly in your memory. At the end of the week, you will definitely only know a small part of what you spent your days doing at the table. Fatigue also contributes...

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Repair work: Sugru, the multi-purpose mouldable glue

For small repairs on cameras, I like to work with Sugru, a mouldable adhesive that can be kneaded and shaped. After hardening, it replaces plastic. https://sugru.com/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sugru Here are two projects where I used Sugru. Alignment of a battery contact on a Canon...

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Demonstration of an electrolytic capacitor charge (excursus for those interested in electronics ;-)

The flash capacitor removed and discharged from a Minolta Auto 132X fascinates me: I'm thinking about what I can do with it that's safe. I have access to my laboratory power supply with a maximum output voltage of 20 VDC (= volts direct current) for charging. This should be a safe voltage...

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Battery acid and electrolyte damage in photographic devices

I have collected some photo equipment that needs repairing in order to develop/train my repair skills. So far, most of the problems have been where leaked battery acid and leaked electrolyte from electrolytic capacitors contaminated contacts, solder joints, wires and conductor tracks on circuit...

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Screw-on filters with retaining rings: Complete cleaning

As a by-catch to lenses, screw-on filters also come into the house from time to time, which the previous owner used as an extra to protect the front lens. You quickly remove them (as long as they aren't stuck) and put them aside or even throw them in the trash. Especially when, after decades of...

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Wish and truth: Camera battery under load

While looking for a solution to an error on an X-500, I came across a note about battery voltage in the associated Minolta service manual. A battery whose voltage is measured without further connection to a load (open-circuit voltage) may still appear to be ok, even though when inserted into...

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Reveni Labs Camera Tester: New perspectives for professional and private camera repairers

Professional test devices for analog cameras are usually only available from old stock. Their heyday is over with the switch to digital photography, their technology is clearly no longer state-of-the-art, but they are still used in repair shops. The devices were large and heavy and were...

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[koraks]

We are very happy with @Andreas Thaler's contributions to the photographic equipment repair community - thank you Andreas!

This thread will be 'stickied' to the top of the forum for easy reference.

 

[MattKing]

Yes Andreas - thank you.

 

[Andreas Thaler]

Thank you very much!

More to come

 

[ic-racer]

Great work!

 

[Andreas Thaler]

Great work!

Thanks!

 

[Andreas Thaler]

Update #1


Nikon

Nikon DP-20 (for F4): Fall from 2.75 m height, LEDs shifted

The day had to come when I would cause my own repairs 😣 Today, while I was rearranging my cupboard, a DP-20 viewfinder for the F4 fell from a height of 2.75 metres onto the parquet floor. The viewfinder is intact on the outside, the glass inside is OK and the LCD works. However, the LED...

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Technique/Know-how

Loosen stubborn screws: Boa Micro Grabit Extractors

Screws that cannot be loosened and whose screw head is damaged by attempts to unscrew it, so that nothing works anymore: every craftsman's nightmare. When dismantling cameras and lenses, it often happens that a screw does not want to come out. Be it rust or a thread being fixed with glue - the...

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Obtaining high-quality magnifying glasses from discontinued lenses

Apart from providing insights into the structure and function of lenses, a section can also provide spare parts and high-quality magnifying glasses. Today I was able to add two more examples to my Minolta magnifying glass collection. A lens in a mount and … … a „tele magnifying...

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Original spare parts: Economical use and respect

Original spare parts are often rare, difficult to obtain, expensive, and the ones you need are always missing. Reason enough to handle them carefully and not to waste anything. Original and unused spare parts are often rare and expensive. I have got into the habit of doing the following...

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DIY camera repairs: Electronics are no obstacle!

As DIY repairers we don't have to worry about how a camera circuit works. The camera designers have already done all of that for us. Some people who want to repair their cameras themselves are put off by the electronics they contain: Electronics are way too complicated, incomprehensible and...

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Technical literature for camera repairs

The number of English-language specialist publications on newer (SLR) cameras repair is manageable. I think I have compiled the most important titles here: The Camera Craftsman, SPT Journal and SPT Service Notes were published periodically. Editions of repair/service manuals, C & C...

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Educational kits - the playful approach: Basic electronic knowledge for camera repair

To repair newer cameras, you almost always need a basic knowledge of electronics. It's not about unravelling complicated circuits, but rather understanding how and why electricity flows, what electrical voltage and resistance mean, and what functions electronic components perform...

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The annoying problem with streaks when cleaning lenses

I have tried many things when cleaning lenses and other optical glass, but no matter which method I use, streaks always remain. These then have to be removed in another cleaning process. If it works. Annoying streaks to be removed What so far works best for me is blowing off with the...

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What a circuit diagram doesn't tell us

Some time ago I sent the circuit diagram for the Nikon MD-4 Motor Drive to an electronics engineer who is particularly well-known in Germany. I wanted to know whether a practitioner with a lot of experience who also develops circuits commercially could read the electronic function of the...

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Older photo devices: Four possible ways in case of an issue

There is a problem with my old camera: Repair, shortcut, workshop or doing nothing? Let me briefly go over the four options that can be used if an older camera/photo device has an issue. I am referring to older devices that are no longer supported by the manufacturer. The correct approach is...

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Repairs: Practice on junk cameras

I implore you to obtain „junk cameras“ and practice on them before attempting even the simplest repair on a valuable camera. No amount of reading and explaining can take the place of hands-on experience. Manual dexterity, reflexes, sharp senses and logic can only be developed through actual...

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Double heat: Loosen screws secured with adhesive

You often come across screws in cameras and lenses that are additionally secured in the thread with adhesive. The manufacturer wants to ensure that the connection holds and is durable, for example on the bayonets of the camera and lenses. As useful as this measure is, it is difficult to loosen...

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Orderly processes: DIY repairs based on scientific principles

Scientific work is characterized, among other things, by the fact that procedures are precisely documented and the sources of information that one uses for one's work are specified. I think that you should generally approach your DIY repair projects in the same way if you write about them...

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About dealing with service manuals as a DIY repairer

If you want to repair a camera or want to know more about its technology and inner workings, the associated service (repair) manual provided by the manufacturer is a great thing. My camera has a problem. Can the manufacturer's service manual help me? You will find technical specifications...

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Comments on solder joints when repairing photographic equipment

Flawless, nice, solder joints are usually also good quality solder joints. Lead-containing solder then shines silvery and lies thickly around the components to be connected. Such solder joints should last a long time. This can be achieved ideally on new, clean circuit boards and similar...

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Repair - Electronics - Basics of Mathematics

Service/repairs MF lenses: What can I do myself and what not?

I'm wondering what level of service/repair for lenses (MF) should generally be expected DIY. In other words, what can be done more or less by yourself, what can an independent workshop do and what can only the manufacturer do (who no longer offers anything for older lenses). My experiences DIY...

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Photo devices repairs: Soldering and desoldering

Soldering is not always easy The question arose as to how to do good soldering during repairs of photo devices like cameras or motor drives. It might be a topic that always concerns you, even if you already have practice. Soldering in tight spaces With photographic equipment there is the...

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Rich sources: Japanese service manuals from the 1970s and 1980s

If you want to understand one of the complex digital-electro-mechanical Japanese SLRs from the 70s and 80s from the inside, you can't ignore the manufacturers' service manuals. In contrast to manuals from later years, which only show a few details and text due to the increasing integration of...

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For repairers: The good news from Minolta

Older electronically controlled cameras (which are no longer serviceable due to lack of spare parts) have a reputation for being difficult to repair - if at all. But often it is not the electronic components that break (excluding electrolytic capacitors) but rather contact problems or problems...

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Thoughts, reflections, considerations

Clean, lubricate, adjust: A promise that costs a lot if kept

You often read in forums that a second-hand or older camera needs a CLA (clean, lubricate, adjust) to make it as good as new and work perfectly. There is nothing wrong with that; any device in which parts move and settings can change will be happy with such a treatment as the owner is. But...

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On the way to becoming a better repairman: Why we should not hesitate

Only recently I made a Canon T90 inoperable, which I definitely could have repaired. I was impatient, unfocused and made an avoidable mistake. Game over. The fact that I successfully repaired another T90 on the same day somehow went unnoticed. What a pity. Should I try it? Today I opened...

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Electronic repairs: Are we giving up too soon?

Problems with camera electronics often seem difficult or impossible to solve. But that is often not the case. „Electronics fault!“ the cry of horror of every camera owner who needs batteries for their device. Because if the electronics don't work anymore, what can you do? As if a mechanical...

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DIY camera repairs, successes and failures: The only flop is giving up

My last projects went differently. I was able to repair or at least improve three cameras, and a lens is now ready for use again. However, my efforts were unsuccessful in three cases. And I have written a lot here in the forum. The light of success does not always shine when repairing...

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DIY repairs: Isn't that pointless?

Namely when a photo device can only be partially repaired but not fully restored. Isn't it a shame to waste the many hours of concentrated work if the camera, lens or winder cannot be used because the shutter does not work, the lens remains cloudy and the motor stops working? Even though the...

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DIY repairs: Limits of what is possible?

With DIY repairs, you can fix many of the common problems with cameras, e.g. disintegrating light seals, contact problems in the battery compartment, defective capacitors, etc. With good instructions or self-study, you can also complete more complex repair tasks, such as removing the mirror box...

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Do-it-yourself repairs: Have fun and set realistic goals

If a camera doesn't work as it should, the question is what is best to do. If it is a current model and there is still a warranty claim, the manufacturer will take care of the repair and you don't have to worry about anything else. Otherwise you pay for the repair, provided the camera is still...

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Worn out cameras, motor drives and lenses: Is it worth the work?

For my repair attempts, I mostly work with cameras, motor drives and lenses that were bought as defective or worn out. For me, it's mostly about experience and learning. If the repair works, I'm happy. But this gear does‘nt have to work anymore. Sometimes there is equipment that has been used...

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Repairs: Why DIY?

I think that when you're doing DIY, you always have to be clear about what you're doing, why and how. After all, it's a very time-consuming activity. It would not only be presumptuous, but at least naive, to believe that you can service or repair a camera according to the only valid standard -...

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Repair projects: Why is it so hard to give up?

A camera doesn't work. There is a fault somewhere in the mechanics or electronics. As always, the cause is not clear. There is nothing concrete about it on the web. Colleagues in the repair forum do not agree. The fault is not described in the manufacturer's repair manual. Personal...

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Repairs: You always have the choice

Sometimes when it comes to repairs, you're afraid to do it yourself. The risk of further damaging a defective but valuable photographic device seems too great. So it's better to hire a specialist workshop or the manufacturer who can do it. A perfectly reasonable consideration. But what do you...

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Camera generation 3000: The end of do it yourself?

Nikon, Canon, Sony and others - they all produce the digital cameras of our third millennium. With shorter product life cycles than before for film cameras, manufacturers are outdoing themselves with increasingly finer-resolution sensors, faster electronic circuits or daring lens designs that...

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Repair reports: Assumptions about the readers and what they are interested in

As a former professional writer, I think about my readers here in the forum. They are the ones I write for. For me alone, keywords in my repair log would be enough. The views that appear next to each thread show that readers exist. Internally and externally, sometimes over 1000 or more. A...

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Real worlds of wonder: Benefit even more from your camera!

Anyone who has a camera that they enjoy taking photos with and that they enjoy because it has many useful functions will get good value for the price they paid. It doesn’t matter whether the camera was purchased new or used. I could end this posting with that, everything has been said. But...

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A break in the workshop: What insights it brings

A break from the workshop helps to put things into perspective. And that's good for the motivation of the DIY repairer. Since I've tackled too many projects in the last few months and got tired of them, I'm now taking a break and reading about camera technology/repairs to improve my knowledge...

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A hopeless mission? Service and repair for newer electronic cameras

Anyone who owns a Nikon F5 or a Canon EOS-1 has reason to be proud. These, and other professional cameras from the 90s onwards, are high-performance machines that perfect the interaction of mechanics and electronics. Built for load and long-term availability. It's still a dream to work with...

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It's a marathon, not a sprint! Some thoughts on managing repair work

I would like to share some personal experience with my repair work, which I do not do commercially and only for my pleasure. As you can tell, I've completed quite a few projects, most of them within a day last year. The result is satisfactory, I was able to repair most things and learned a lot...

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When are you successful as a repairer? A simple question?

Is a failed repair attempt a reason to be discouraged? No, because this can result in a new project that even brings more than a successful repair! Valuable and interesting comments to https://www.photrio.com/forum/threads/nikon-speedlight-sb-e-dissection.204189/ have inspired me to a new...

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Repairs: Specialist or generalist?

Since I'm not yet fit to work on the workbench, I'm dealing with basic questions 😌 One of them is whether, as a repairer, you should aim to have complete mastery of a repair area/certain devices or to cover as much work as possible, even if you are not able to repair everything. This may...

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Failed repairs: Why did it go wrong and how to deal with it?

Another thread recently discussed, among other things, failed repair projects that no one hears about. Which is a shame, because you learn from mistakes, even if they hurt, and as a repairman you'd much rather report successes. So let's talk about what we failed to achieve with faulty cameras...

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How to become a better repairer: Theory versus practice?

It's actually surprising but in order to repair photographic equipment you actually don't need to know much about its technology. It is much more important to be able to determine where something is wrong. And in many cases you don't need any training as an engineer. At least that is my...

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Repairs: What did I learn so far?

I've been working intensively on photo equipment repair projects for a longer period now. Cameras, motor drives, lenses - leaked battery acid, electronic problems, dirt, cloudy lenses, fungus and also blocked mechanisms. I was able to restore some things, others ended up disassembled in a...

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Troubleshooting electronic SLRs: There is little you can do, but do it

I wonder what options there are to find and resolve errors in a highly integrated electronic camera circuit. For example, the Minolta X-700 five ICs, several discrete electronic components and electromechanical parts. Under the hood of the Minolta X-700 It is of course possible to go in...

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+++

All information provided without guarantee and use at your own risk.

 

[Andreas Thaler]

Update #2


Canon FD

Canon nFD: A little helper for lens testing

Today I tested the functionality of this nFD 35-105/3.5~4.5 and also looked at the lenses with the LED lamp. With Canon nFD lenses, the aperture is closed when they are removed from the camera, and the aperture blades remain locked. This makes testing the lenses with the LED lamp only possible...

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Canon T90: Surprise in the box

Some time ago I bought a Canon T90 on eBay, which the seller said is in excellent external condition but showes no signs of life. I haven't unpacked and looked through the camera yet. This will be an exciting project, because even if I manage to wake the T90 up again, will its shutter work...

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Minolta

Minolta X-7: Artefacts on the prism; view under the top cover

This beautiful Minolta X-7 has been sitting in my box of new acquisitions that I still have to check out for some time. Today I took a look at it. When I look into the viewfinder I see this interesting artifact. It looks like the remains of rotten foam and is reflected above the focusing...

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Nikon

Nikon F4: Quick check, repairs

I was able to purchase a Nikon F4 with a Tamron 28-200 (an independent project) for a fair price. The seller informed me that he could not get the F4 to work. Here's how I quickly checked the F4 without batteries: The F4 is in good external condition. The battery holder is badly damaged and...

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Nikon EM with winder MD-E and flash unit SB-E as next project

The Nikon EM with its exclusive winder MD-E and the flash unit SB-E will be my next main project this year. With a focus on technical exploration, service and repair. Nikon EM: carefree photography The EM from 1979 was Nikon's attempt to make SLR photography accessible to customers with less...

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Tamron

Tamron 28-200/3.8~5.6 LD Aspherical (IF) (171A): Lens unit cloudy, dissection

Last year I bought a Tamron 28-200 for Minolta MD, which the seller said had never been used and is in its original packaging with all the paperwork. It later turned out that the zoom lens in the rear, second to last lens unit is cloudy. Cleaning is not possible because the unit cannot be...

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Tamron SP 60-300/3.8~4.5 Adaptall-2: Cloudiness and separation, replacement of lenses

An SP 60-300 with a heavily clouded lens and separation is on my table. Beautiful, mechanically ok, but with an optical handicap ... ... which occurs in a place that is difficult to reach ... ... although I'm wondering whether the clouding is between the cemented lenses ... …...

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Thoughts, reflections, considerations

DIY photo equipment repairs: How do expectations and reality go together?

Since I spend a lot of time trying to do DIY repairs, I ask myself at the end of every project whether it was worth the effort, whether I did the right thing and what is or could be possible for me with a screwdriver. The ideal thing when repairing photo equipment would be to be able to...

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Starting with DIY photo equipment repairs: Two ways and a third

If a camera or lens is not working, there are two main ways you can go to repair it. You should be clear about this beforehand, because both ways are mutually exclusive: Disassemble, understand, service everything and reassemble. Only do what is absolutely necessary and disturb the system as...

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A basic curriculum for DIY camera repairers

Repairing cameras and photo equipment can be a simple and relaxing task. Equipped with a screwdriver, tweezers, a magnifying glass and a broken camera, you set off on a journey of discovery, hoping to find and fix the problem. If you succeed, you're happy; if you don't succeed, you've had a...

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DIY repairs: There are no victories and no defeats

One of the biggest threats to motivation when doing DIY repairs is failure. You have not managed to restore the camera or lens, find the fault, understand its cause, and perhaps you have even damaged something else in the repair attempt. Hours of work, concentration and hope are in vain, and...

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[Andreas Thaler]

Update #3


Canon

Canon AE-1 - discover microprocessor-controlled precision mechanics

Digital and analogue electronics as well as precision mechanics to discover: Canon AE-1, the first SLR with microprocessor control on the world market. The Canon AE-1 from 1976 in the FD system was the first SLR to be controlled by a microprocessor. This meant that computer technology was on...

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Minolta

Minolta XD: Dent in top cover removed, Aperture Direct Readout (ADR) adjusted, fixed LED issues, switches S3, S5 and S7 checked

I just purchased a mint XD whose top cover is dented. I am informed by the seller (who kindly provided me with these photos) that it was caused by transport damage. The following questions arise for me, which I hope to be able to answer as soon as the camera is with me: Are parts under...

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Nikon

Nikon EM: Check and clean, issue with automatic shutdown of the exposure meter

The Nikon EM with its exclusive winder MD-E and the flash unit SB-E will be my next main project this year. With a focus on technical exploration, service and repair. Nikon EM: carefree photography The EM from 1979 was Nikon's attempt to make SLR photography accessible to customers with less...

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Nikon winder MD-E for the Nikon EM: Troubleshooting

After taking care of my well-used and dirty Nikon EM https://www.photrio.com/forum/threads/nikon-em-check-and-clean.208703/ today I'm taking a look at the corresponding winder MD-E. In a quick first test at the EM the winder doesn't work. So let's take a closer look at it. The...

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Nikon Speedlight SB-E for the Nikon EM: Disassembling, assessment condition, decision service

As the third and final sub-project in my Nikon EM series, I will try to get a small SB-E system flash for the EM up and running again. In the battery compartment, there is severe corrosion of the contact springs due to leaked battery electrolyte. This is probably the most common error with...

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Thoughts, reflections, considerations

Disassembling and reassembling SLRs from the 80s: Limits are set by complexity, not skills

The Nikon EM for example is considered a simple SLR. Both in terms of operation and structure. The former is certainly true, its target audience appreciated and appreciates the few functions that are not meant to be overwhelming. Easy to use, relatively simple in construction: The Nikon EM...

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Call: Please publish DIY repair reports and contribute to the continued existence of film!

Every DIY repair report and every published experience with repair attempts count. We have many posts here in the forum with questions about how something can be repaired, but only a few repair reports and tutorials. That's a shame, because it means that expertise and specialist knowledge...

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Three years as a DIY repairer of photo equipment from the 80s: Was it worth the work? An interim assessment

I have been repairing photo equipment from the 1980s for about three years now and have completed or written about 240 projects and essays on the subject, pretty much all of which are here. The number of successes is greater than the failures in the projects, I would say the ratio is 4:1. I...

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+++

All information provided without guarantee and use at your own risk.

 

[Andreas Thaler]

Update #4


Canon

Two Canon EFs not working: Damage to the power supply caused by battery electrolyte [repaired both]

I have had two two beautiful Canon EFs for many years. They have been working, but the battery control LED on one of them wouldn't come on. I didn't think anything of it, and when I started repairing, I wanted to take a look at the problem. Today I fitted both with 1.35 volt Weincell batteries...

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Minolta

Minolta XD7 (XD, XD11): Cleaning the pneumatic mirror shock absorber

The Minolta XD7 (XD, XD11) has a pneumatic mirror shock absorber built in, which consists of an air cylinder, air piston and a spiral spring. The proper functioning of the shock absorber can be impaired by dirt in the cylinder, which results in a delayed release of the triggering process. The...

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Thoughts, reflections, considerations

Spare parts for photo equipment repairs: three options and a fourth

If a part, for example in a camera, is damaged, there are three options for repair: replacing it with a new original spare part, replacing it with a used original spare part, patching the broken part. A fourth solution would be to make a new part yourself for the replacement. New original...

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Documenting repairs: Capturing the invisible

If you regularly repair photo equipment, possibly even those of the same type, it is worth documenting these projects. This preserves repair processes that are usually no longer visible once the device has been reassembled. Information will be provided about the type of error, the measures...

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Systematic troubleshooting: the best way for DIY repairers?

If the mirror on an SLR stays up or the camera is not receiving any power at all, troubleshooting often begins more or less immediately. A few thoughts about what the cause of the error might be, plus experience and intuition, a look at the web, a quick consultation of the available technical...

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DIY photo equipment electronics repairs: Basic knowledge is enough for the little that you can do

In my experience, when it comes to electronics in photo devices, you only need a basic understanding to repair it; the rest is for deeper understanding and circuit construction. There is not much that can be done about electronic problems, but this covers the most common problems: contact...

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+++

All information provided without guarantee and use at your own risk.

 

[Andreas Thaler]

Update #5


Nikon

Nikon F3: Disassembly of the mechanical release/exposure lock switch (plastic version)

Since I'm removing this switch as a spare part for a colleague, here's the process. Interestingly, I couldn't find any information about this in the Nikon F3 service manual. This is the first version of the button made of plastic, see below in the thread the note from @Mamiya_Repair...

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Nikkor 24-120/3.5~5.6 AF-D (IF): Fungus removed, assembling the rear lens block, infinity focus stop

I actually bought this zoom lens for immediate use. When I checked it, I found mold on several lenses. That would be a reason to send the lens back to the seller straight away. But for me it is a welcome repair project 😊 I really appreciate this lens for my walks through the city because it...

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Technique/Know-how

Use of cordless screwdrivers in the repair of photographic equipment

Up until now, I have only used my cordless screwdriver to drill into screw heads and unscrew screws. I am wondering whether the device has any advantages for jobs that I have previously done manually with a screwdriver. In particular, loosening stuck screws. The torque should be higher than...

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Disposable syringes with thin cannulas for placing liquids

I was looking for syringes with thin needles for dispensing small amounts of alcohol, oil and benzine on Amazon. For just under EUR/USD 12 you can get 30 disposable plastic syringes with needles and a volume of 1 millilitre. Country of origin: China. The selection on Amazon is huge...

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Laborious but necessary: Keep tools and workplace clean

When working on photographic equipment, you quickly come into contact with lubricants that can be solid or liquid, partially depending on the aging process. Helicoids in lenses for example are a good source of lubricants, as are gears in cameras and motor drives. Here I had washed out the...

www.photrio.com

Thoughts, reflections, considerations

DIY photo equipment repairs: Between botched work and mastery

Anyone who tries to repair a camera or lens DIY has only one wish: to make the device work again. The ways to do this are often numerous and uncertain. Some things work, some don't, and every now and then an attempt at repair ends in disaster. This is no wonder because those who once learned...

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Let's talk about it: Overcoming blockages in DIY projects

Even experienced DIY repairers know the problem: A repair project is pending, everything is ready, the procedure is clear - but you lack the motivation to start working. Perhaps the thought of the work ahead makes you feel uncomfortable or even afraid. Until a defective lens works properly...

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+++

All information provided without guarantee and use at your own risk.

 

[moggi1964]

WOW!

A huge thank you for your dedication to the cause, Andreas.

 

[Andreas Thaler]

WOW!

A huge thank you for your dedication to the cause, Andreas.

You're welcome, I hope it helps!

 

[Andreas Thaler]

Update #6


Minolta

Minolta (Maxxum/Alpha) 7000 AF: Aperture issues resolved/shortcut; LCDs, aperture ring, shutter unit replaced; aperture solenoid cleaned

With the Minolta/Maxxum/Alpha 7000 AF Minolta ushered in the autofocus era in 1985. Similar to the Minolta 9000 AF, the Minolta 7000 AF can have problems with the aperture control. No matter what aperture is set, the 7000 always creates the smallest aperture. I suspect that the contact...

www.photrio.com

Minolta 9000 AF: Removing the mirror box, cleaning the shutter, reassembling

The Minolta 9000 AF/Minolta Maxxum 9000/Minolta Alpha-9000: The first professional camera with autofocus manufactured for the mass market, introduced in 1985. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minolta_Maxxum_9000 We currently have several threads on the Minolta 9000, which deal with various...

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Minolta 7000: Behavior of the aperture

I have observed the following with my Minolta 7000 in M mode: aperture set to any value, shutter speed as well, camera triggered, aperture closes to the specified value, after the shutter speed has elapsed the aperture closes to the smallest value for a tiny moment and opens. Is this behavior...

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Minolta 7000: Memory backup lithium battery, main batteries, functionality, 7000 or 9000, disintegrated plastic, cleaning contacts, voltages

Completely unexpectedly, my neighbor gave me an obviously unused Minolta 7000 with two equally new Minolta AF zooms, complemented by a Minolta Program 2800 AF flash, which works just like all the other devices. Sometimes things just come to you on their own 😌 Today I looked at the built-in 3...

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Minolta AF 35-70/4, Minolta AF 70-210/4 and Minolta AF 35-105/3.5~4.5: Removal and cleaning of oily aperture registers

In my current thread on improving several Minolta/Maxxum 9000 SLRs, I had already introduced these four associated lenses: These Minolta AF lenses also come from the box of defective/untested photo equipment: 2 x AF 35-70/4 1 x AF 35-105/3.5~4.5 1 x AF 70-210/4 All four have lame apertures...

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Minolta 9000: Checking shutter and focusing screen, adjusting the mirror, replacing parts, cleaning

In my inbox for defective/untested photo equipment there were still a few Minolta/Maxxum 9000s. Together with the others in the cupboard I now have eight of them. In terms of functionality - I quickly checked the AF, the aperture control and the shutter - the distribution is as follows: three...

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Minolta 9000: Examination of the sticky shutter and discussing solutions

Following these threads on issues with the Minolta 9000 https://www.photrio.com/forum/threads/minolta-maxxum-9000-dissection-and-investigating-the-aperture-issue.208476/ https://www.photrio.com/forum/threads/8-x-minolta-maxxum-9000-and-4-x-minolta-af-lenses-a-sample.210960/ I am starting a...

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Minolta MD-90, BP-90 and AW-90: Test, troubleshooting contact problems, dissection

Today I achieved my goal of putting together two functional units, each consisting of a Minolta 9000 and a Motor Drive MD-90 with a BP-90 battery holder. It was also an eventful session: One of my six working 9000s failed. I was able to add a working Winder AW-90 to my ensemble and I...

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Nikon

Nikon F4: Mission Aperture Lever - two ways to fix the aperture problem

{Moderator note 12 Jan 25: five threads on the F4/F4S aperture lever repair have been merged into the present thread. You may encounter one or two dead links to 'other' threads. The posts they pointed to, are now all part of this thread, which mostly still follows the journey in a logical and...

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Technique/Know-how

Helpful tool to remove batteries

Because I no longer wanted to break my fingernails when removing AA batteries from battery holders and battery compartments, I found help in my toolbox. With this tool, AA batteries can be easily grabbed and pulled out or levered out. It is a desoldering lever that is intended for...

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Laborious but necessary: Keep tools and workplace clean

When working on photographic equipment, you quickly come into contact with lubricants that can be solid or liquid, partially depending on the aging process. Helicoids in lenses for example are a good source of lubricants, as are gears in cameras and motor drives. Here I had washed out the...

www.photrio.com

Thoughts, reflections, considerations

Older photo equipment with issues: From user to admirer and enthusiast

Here in the repair forum we try to get older cameras and photo equipment working again. Some people may remember their younger years when these devices were new in the windows of photo shops and repairs were no problem. Send the faulty camera or electronic flash to the manufacturer with a...

www.photrio.com

+++

All information provided without guarantee and use at your own risk.

 

[Andreas Thaler]

Update #7


Minolta

Minolta (Maxxum/Alpha) 7000 AF: Tutorial for removing the mirror box and shutter unit, notes on assembly

In order to access the shutter for repairs or replacement, the mirror box on the Minolta 7000 AF must be removed. The same applies to fixing problems with the aperture control or the mechanics of the mirror box. This tutorial shows the necessary steps. The basis for this is the Minolta Service...

www.photrio.com

Minolta (Maxxum/Alpha) 7000 AF: Aperture issues resolved/shortcut; LCDs, aperture ring, shutter unit replaced; aperture solenoid cleaned

With the Minolta/Maxxum/Alpha 7000 AF Minolta ushered in the autofocus era in 1985. Similar to the Minolta 9000 AF, the Minolta 7000 AF can have problems with the aperture control. No matter what aperture is set, the 7000 always creates the smallest aperture. I suspect that the contact...

www.photrio.com

Minolta (Maxxum/Alpha) 7000 AF: Recommendations and notes, extended technical details for DIY repairs

Based on my repair experience with the Minolta 7000 AF with regard to typical issues and repair options, I would like to give a summary of my findings and solutions. All listed problems can be solved with relatively little effort. The camera always forms the smallest aperture in all modes...

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The Minolta 7000 AF repair marathon

I was recently able to purchase a bundle of eight Minolta 7000 AF cameras that were advertised as defective at an extremely reasonable price. The cameras arrived today and have all been through a lot. From a cracked top cover and broken light inlet cover, a shredded shutter curtain or...

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Minolta Program 2800 AF flash: Dissection

For study purposes, I disassembled a Minolta Program 2800 AF flash whose battery contacts were heavily corroded by battery electrolyte. The flash belongs to the Minolta 7000/9000 AF system. ⚠️ ⚡ A word of caution What we as DIY repairers WITHOUT electronics training should definitely not...

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Nikon

Nikon DP-20 Finder (for Nikon F4): Troubleshooting contact problems, disassembling, cleaning the interior and the optics

There was a DP-20 finder for the Nikon F4 in my box of repair projects for a while now and I no longer knew what problems it had. When I put it on my work F4 for a test, the upper display showed an impossible exposure compensation value and the lower LCD showed nothing at all. Cleaning...

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Technique/Know-how

Fast soldering in camera repair with the cordless soldering iron

When I'm working at a small desk with little space, I like to use my cordless soldering iron for simple soldering jobs like soldering and desoldering cables on flexible circuit boards or desoldering with the desoldering braid. This device is far above the usual soldering temperature of 320...

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Thoughts, reflections, considerations

Repair of electromechanical SLRs: You just have to want it

If you look around the web for information on repairs to newer electromechanical SLRs, such as the first generation of AF cameras from Minolta (9000, 7000 and 5000 AF), you will find little concrete information. Batteries should be exchanged with fresh ones, replace the backup battery for the...

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Photo equipment of the 1980s: Suffering from surprisingly banal problems

It is interesting that - as far as my experience so far - the complex and sophisticated electronic photo devices of the 1980s often suffer from surprisingly banal problems. In the case of the Minolta 7000 AF it is evidently a slight contamination of two contact surfaces of a switching magnet...

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From the Moon to Camera Repair: What the Apollo Space Missions Teach Us

(Logo public domain) For my ongoing project - investigation of the faulty aperture control of a Minolta 7000 AF and subsequent repair - I thought again about the NASA Apollo space missions in the 1960s and early 1970s. The gradual approach to the Moon landing in several missions, during which...

www.photrio.com

+++

All information provided without guarantee and use at your own risk.

 

[moggi1964]

There should be some kind of 'Outstanding contributor' award which Andreas would surely win.

Thank you so much.

 

[Andreas Thaler]

There should be some kind of 'Outstanding contributor' award which Andreas would surely win.

Thank you so much.

With pleasure, I am happy if it helps others in their work.

I really enjoy it and there is still a lot to do

 

[bernard_L]

Thank you !!

 

[loccdor]

Thanks for all the work you do. I am interested in the Canon EOS 620/650 which is just barely in the 1980s. They are a great value but tend to need shutter cleaning.

 

[Andreas Thaler]

Update #8


Minolta

Minolta Auto Winder AW-90: Battery holder slider replaced

The Auto Winder AW-90 is an exclusive accessoire for the Minolta 9000 AF and offers a handy alternative to the more powerful Motor Drive MD-90. The AW-90 is rare on the used market, so I was looking for a way to repair my second AW-90, whose battery holder slider was missing. The battery...

www.photrio.com

Minolta (Maxxum, Alpha) 9000 AF: Blockage fixed, shutter cleaned/adjusted, exposure system checked, AEL, aperture control base plate, mirror stop

A common problem with the 9000 AF, that has not yet been investigated, is a blocked shutter/mirror/aperture sequence. The mirror stops halfway, the winding lever can no longer be moved, and the camera is locked, it can no longer be used. I have two 9000 AFs with this problem, and I will...

www.photrio.com

Minolta (Maxxum, Alpha) 9000 AF: Shutter disassembled, cleaned, tested, adjusted; exposure metering system checked - passed

Today I had a good day: I was able to put the first 9000 AF from my repair collection into service 🙃 It's the 9000, whose shutter I accidentally and irreversibly misaligned. Today I installed a replacement. I had previously also replaced the counter base plate because the switch contact for...

www.photrio.com

Minolta (Maxxum, Alpha) 9000 AF: Removal of the mirrorbox/assembly, investigating the aperture issue, replacing the sticky damper in the shutter unit

An SLR from 1985 that is not only beautiful but also technically innovative, but which you don't read much about: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minolta_Maxxum_9000 Inspired by @Paul Howell in...

www.photrio.com

The Minolta 7000 AF repair marathon

I was recently able to purchase a bundle of eight Minolta 7000 AF cameras that were advertised as defective at an extremely reasonable price. The cameras arrived today and have all been through a lot. From a cracked top cover and broken light inlet cover, a shredded shutter curtain or...

www.photrio.com

Minolta (Maxxum/Alpha) 7000 AF: Checking and adjusting

After looking at how to access the shutter on the Minolta 7000 (by removing the mirror box), how to dismount it, and how to set the curtain travel times, this thread is about further checks/settings on the camera. These are described in the Minolta Service Manual. The nice thing about the...

www.photrio.com

Minolta (Maxxum/Alpha) 9000 AF: Tutorial for removing the mirror box, notes on assembly, cleaning/adjusting the Copal S shutter

In order to access the shutter for repairs or replacement, the mirror box on the Minolta 9000 AF must be removed. The same applies to fixing problems with the aperture control or the mechanics of the mirror box. This tutorial provides information with direct reference to the Minolta Service...

www.photrio.com

Minolta (Maxxum/Alpha) 7000 AF: Tutorial for removing the mirror box and shutter unit, notes on assembly, adjusting the Copal S shutter

In order to access the shutter for repairs or replacement, the mirror box on the Minolta 7000 AF must be removed. The same applies to fixing problems with the aperture control or the mechanics of the mirror box. This tutorial shows the necessary steps. The basis for this is the Minolta Service...

www.photrio.com

Minolta (Maxxum/Alpha) 7000 AF: Aperture issues resolved/shortcut; LCDs, aperture ring, shutter unit replaced; aperture solenoid cleaned

With the Minolta/Maxxum/Alpha 7000 AF Minolta ushered in the autofocus era in 1985. Similar to the Minolta 9000 AF, the Minolta 7000 AF can have problems with the aperture control. No matter what aperture is set, the 7000 always creates the smallest aperture. I suspect that the contact...

www.photrio.com

Inside the Minolta Program Back Super 70: Contact problems resolved

Since this control back for the Minolta 7000 AF quickly forgets the time and date settings and showed low voltage for both fresh LR44 batteries, I opened it to have a look. One of the two batteries in the second battery compartment had leaked and it could have damaged the circuit board behind...

www.photrio.com

Minolta (Maxxum, Alpha) 7000 and 9000 AF: Comparison of repair options

From our previous threads and discussions, I conclude that the Minolta 7000 AF clearly offers the best chances when it comes to repairs. The 9000 AF has more weak points, is more complex in its construction and the technical documentation is limited to the service manual. Here is a comparison...

www.photrio.com

Technique/Know-how

Solenoids in electromechanical SLRs: The connection between electronics and mechanics

Solenoids, or simply „magnets“, can be found in every electromechanical SLR. They ensure that the curtains are triggered at a set interval, a mirror is released or that the aperture is closed to the intended value. As electromechanical switches, they are a link between electronics and...

www.photrio.com

Thoughts, reflections, considerations

How to become a successful camera repairer?

I was recently asked how to become a successful camera repairer. At first, I didn't know the answer. What does „successful“ mean? Being able to solve any problem quickly, cost-effectively, and sustainably? Having a thorough understanding of the technical aspects and the necessary skills for...

www.photrio.com

Understanding how electromechanical SLRs work: Information is available

Many questions arise, particularly when it comes to the electronic control of SLRs: How do the fully automatic and semi-automatic exposure modes work? How does the autofocus work? How do the motor drive and camera cooperate? How are the LCD displays and colorful LEDs in the viewfinder...

www.photrio.com

Lost, no more new repair projects, bored? Ask Larry Lyells!

Without the technical articles by Larry Lyells, who probably created most of the content of the SPT Journal, The Camera Craftsman and the C & C Troubleshooting Guides, we would be in the dark when it comes to repairing our 1980s and 1990s cameras. With incredible meticulousness, Larry...

www.photrio.com

 

[Alexander K]

Обновление №8


Минолта

Minolta Auto Winder AW-90: Battery holder slider replaced

The Auto Winder AW-90 is an exclusive accessoire for the Minolta 9000 AF and offers a handy alternative to the more powerful Motor Drive MD-90. The AW-90 is rare on the used market, so I was looking for a way to repair my second AW-90, whose battery holder slider was missing. The battery...

www.photrio.com

Minolta (Maxxum, Alpha) 9000 AF: Blockage fixed, shutter cleaned/adjusted, exposure system checked, AEL, aperture control base plate, mirror stop

A common problem with the 9000 AF, that has not yet been investigated, is a blocked shutter/mirror/aperture sequence. The mirror stops halfway, the winding lever can no longer be moved, and the camera is locked, it can no longer be used. I have two 9000 AFs with this problem, and I will...

www.photrio.com

Minolta (Maxxum, Alpha) 9000 AF: Shutter disassembled, cleaned, tested, adjusted; exposure metering system checked - passed

Today I had a good day: I was able to put the first 9000 AF from my repair collection into service 🙃 It's the 9000, whose shutter I accidentally and irreversibly misaligned. Today I installed a replacement. I had previously also replaced the counter base plate because the switch contact for...

www.photrio.com

https://www.photrio.com/forum/threa...амена-липкого-заслонки-в-узле-затвора.208476/

The Minolta 7000 AF repair marathon

I was recently able to purchase a bundle of eight Minolta 7000 AF cameras that were advertised as defective at an extremely reasonable price. The cameras arrived today and have all been through a lot. From a cracked top cover and broken light inlet cover, a shredded shutter curtain or...

www.photrio.com

Minolta (Maxxum/Alpha) 7000 AF: Checking and adjusting

After looking at how to access the shutter on the Minolta 7000 (by removing the mirror box), how to dismount it, and how to set the curtain travel times, this thread is about further checks/settings on the camera. These are described in the Minolta Service Manual. The nice thing about the...

www.photrio.com

Minolta (Maxxum/Alpha) 9000 AF: Tutorial for removing the mirror box, notes on assembly, cleaning/adjusting the Copal S shutter

In order to access the shutter for repairs or replacement, the mirror box on the Minolta 9000 AF must be removed. The same applies to fixing problems with the aperture control or the mechanics of the mirror box. This tutorial provides information with direct reference to the Minolta Service...

www.photrio.com

Minolta (Maxxum/Alpha) 7000 AF: Tutorial for removing the mirror box and shutter unit, notes on assembly, adjusting the Copal S shutter

In order to access the shutter for repairs or replacement, the mirror box on the Minolta 7000 AF must be removed. The same applies to fixing problems with the aperture control or the mechanics of the mirror box. This tutorial shows the necessary steps. The basis for this is the Minolta Service...

www.photrio.com

Minolta (Maxxum/Alpha) 7000 AF: Aperture issues resolved/shortcut; LCDs, aperture ring, shutter unit replaced; aperture solenoid cleaned

With the Minolta/Maxxum/Alpha 7000 AF Minolta ushered in the autofocus era in 1985. Similar to the Minolta 9000 AF, the Minolta 7000 AF can have problems with the aperture control. No matter what aperture is set, the 7000 always creates the smallest aperture. I suspect that the contact...

www.photrio.com

Inside the Minolta Program Back Super 70: Contact problems resolved

Since this control back for the Minolta 7000 AF quickly forgets the time and date settings and showed low voltage for both fresh LR44 batteries, I opened it to have a look. One of the two batteries in the second battery compartment had leaked and it could have damaged the circuit board behind...

www.photrio.com

Minolta (Maxxum, Alpha) 7000 and 9000 AF: Comparison of repair options

From our previous threads and discussions, I conclude that the Minolta 7000 AF clearly offers the best chances when it comes to repairs. The 9000 AF has more weak points, is more complex in its construction and the technical documentation is limited to the service manual. Here is a comparison...

www.photrio.com

Техника/Ноу-хау

Solenoids in electromechanical SLRs: The connection between electronics and mechanics

Solenoids, or simply „magnets“, can be found in every electromechanical SLR. They ensure that the curtains are triggered at a set interval, a mirror is released or that the aperture is closed to the intended value. As electromechanical switches, they are a link between electronics and...

www.photrio.com

Мысли, размышления, соображения

How to become a successful camera repairer?

I was recently asked how to become a successful camera repairer. At first, I didn't know the answer. What does „successful“ mean? Being able to solve any problem quickly, cost-effectively, and sustainably? Having a thorough understanding of the technical aspects and the necessary skills for...

www.photrio.com

Understanding how electromechanical SLRs work: Information is available

Many questions arise, particularly when it comes to the electronic control of SLRs: How do the fully automatic and semi-automatic exposure modes work? How does the autofocus work? How do the motor drive and camera cooperate? How are the LCD displays and colorful LEDs in the viewfinder...

www.photrio.com

Lost, no more new repair projects, bored? Ask Larry Lyells!

Without the technical articles by Larry Lyells, who probably created most of the content of the SPT Journal, The Camera Craftsman and the C & C Troubleshooting Guides, we would be in the dark when it comes to repairing our 1980s and 1990s cameras. With incredible meticulousness, Larry...

www.photrio.com

Тhank you!