Hi-Matic 9 RF in need of cleaning?

[PeanutNore]

I have a Minolta Hi-Matic 9 that I really love. The lens is crystal clear, the rangefinder seems to be in good adjustment, the shutter speeds all seem to be working fine, and the meter and auto exposure work very well with a Wein cell. All in all I have no problem getting good, sharp photographs with it.

My problem is that the viewfinder window is generally kind of hazy, and compared to my GW690 the rangefinder spot is pretty dim. I'm wondering if anything can be done about this, and if it would be worth it considering I paid $30 for the camera and at the end of the day it works pretty well.

 

[billdele]

I had a similar problem with my HiMatic 7S which I think is quite similar to your 9 model. A local camera repair shop cleaned it up very well; I can't remember about the rf spot before the cleaning (I think it was ok); it surely works fine now. I think that it cost $35 for the cleaning.

 

[David Lyga]

Most RFs have tops that can be rather easily removed: a few screws and the film advance lever (usually the top turns counterclockwise to unloosen). If you get the top off, take a very clean, soft bit of tissue, moistened with a bit of glass cleaner (no alcohol), and, using a tiny screwdriver or forceps, gently moisten all the inner and outer areas of the entire VF glass. (Warning: if you use alcohol, you will remove the coating on the 45 degree reflective/transparent glass needed for focusing). I have never had trouble using even plain water with a tiny drop of dish liquid in a full cup. Make sure to completely dry everything as this procedure is delicate and dust can easily settle. Blow out any lingering dust. Make sure to also clean the top while it is off, both inside and outside. -David Lyga