Fuji GL690 Rangefinder Calibration Issue

[AveryMiller]

Hey everyone!
I've been enjoying using my GL690, but there have been a couple bumps in the road. What I'm attempting to do currently is calibrate the rangefinder-- it's drifted just enough to make subjects just slightly out of focus.
I was thrilled to find out that I only needed to remove the cold shoe to reach the calibration screws, but I was disappointed to find that the screw which controls horizontal calibration is somewhat stripped and won't budge.

I resolved to remove the whole top cover and I actually learned a fair amount. The retaining ring around the shutter was tough to get off, but I 3D printed a tool which was able to get it off.
With a better view I was able to use the vertical adjusting screw, but the horizontal screw moves just barely and with it being stripped I'm not able to get a good grip on it.

So any suggestions? I heard someone mention that the screws are glued to prevent it from getting uncalibrated, but even if I am able to remove that I don't think I'll be able to turn it.
In the short term I can try scale focusing or an external rangefinder, but I'm not sure how to approach this other than cannibalizing another for-parts camera for its rangefinder assembly. Any thoughts or suggestions would be much appreciated!

 

[shutterfinger]

1. pour some Acetone in the cavity next to the stuck/striped screw and allow to sit for a few minutes. Tilt the camera so that the acetone is against the screw.
2. file or grind a slot, clean up the existing slot with a needle file or Dremel fine cutoff wheel. A worn wheel may be better than a new one.

 

[Light Capture]

+1 on Acetone. I use dental pick, needle or something similar to apply very fine drop. Acetone dries in seconds so applying few tiny drops in sequence will keep it working and will make sure it doesn't go where it shouldn't.
Cleaning the slot and using sharp screwdriver will help. Screwdriver can be sharpened or touched in different ways to increase grip and prevent stripping of screws if needed.

 

[coclode]

Hello, the light-blocking curtain of my GL690 sometimes stays open, causing the photo not to be fully exposed. Could someone explain the reasons for this problem and how to fix it? Thank you.

Coclode.

 

[Dan Daniel]

Hello, the light-blocking curtain of my GL690 sometimes stays open, causing the photo not to be fully exposed. Could someone explain the reasons for this problem and how to fix it? Thank you.

Coclode.

I'd encourage you to start a new thread with this topic. Many people will not read this old thread. A new thread with a topic such as 'Fuji GL690 light blocking curtain problem' will have a better chance of being seen!

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