Canon AE-1 aperture not reset

AlexLiang · Nov 9, 2023

Hello, This is my first thread in this forum. Thank you for sharing your expertise and experiences from which learn a lot.

recently I found that my AE-1 aperture doesn’t reset to wide-open after each shot (shutter release) until I rewind for next frame. Will you please shed light on the issue¿ Thanks.

Dustin McAmera · Nov 9, 2023

Check the stop-down slider at the side of the lens-mount isn't pushed in.

koraks · Nov 9, 2023

Does this problem occur with one specific lens, or with various lenses?

Ian C · Nov 9, 2023

Echoing post #2.

Check the manual. See particularly “Checking the Depth of Field,” pages 18 and 19. The DOF slide must be in the off position to allow the aperture to operate normally. Read the three notes at the bottom of page 19.

https://www.cameramanuals.org/canon_pdf/canon_ae-1.pdf

AlexLiang · Nov 9, 2023

koraks said:
Does this problem occur with one specific lens, or with various lenses?

Firstly the issue happened with my 28mm only, and then with 50mm. Thanks for the question.

AlexLiang · Nov 9, 2023

Ian C said:
Echoing post #2.

Check the manual. See particularly “Checking the Depth of Field,” pages 18 and 19. The DOF slide must be in the off position to allow the aperture to operate normally. Read the three notes at the bottom of page 19.

https://www.cameramanuals.org/canon_pdf/canon_ae-1.pdf

Thanks. I will read.

Dustin McAmera said:
Check the stop-down slider at the side of the lens-mount isn't pushed in.

No, the stop-down slider isn't pushed in. Thanks.

Laurent · Nov 10, 2023

I think my AE1P had a similar issue, but this was some long time ago, and I do not remember clearly.

At this time I sent it for a CLA but am not sure why I sent it and what was the outcome.

AlexLiang · Nov 10, 2023

Thank you, Laurent.

I have 'fixed' the issue by warming up the camera (I put it close to room heating). Recently the weather temp dropped down. To confirm my finding, I put the camera outdoors and the issue comes back. Seriously. It seems the camera hasn't been used for a long time. Maybe a little lubricant may help recover it.

BrianShaw · Nov 10, 2023

If the sluggishness is in the lens versus in the body, then the sluggishness is likely caused by degraded oi on the springs or sliding mechanisms. Better performance when warmed is consistent with this hypothesis. Adding more will cause more problems. Have you checked the aperture action with the lens off the camera? If that condition shows aperture sluggishness then it needs an overhaul.

Canon AE-1 aperture not reset

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