This question probably deters many people from repairing SLRs and lenses themselves. Because the answer might not be encouraging.
It is assumed that you need long, arduous technical training, with lots of theory and, of course, mathematics. And there is no training program or course that you can book. If you look on the web, there are a lot of videos on the subject of DIY, but how can you judge whether what is shown is correct or recommendable?
In any case, the work looks complicated.
Maybe it's better not to do it yourself after all. And I don't have all day to work my way through the subject?
Organize your own training
I felt the same way when I thought about maintaining my SLRs and lenses myself. I had the desire, but I lacked guidance. How do I get started? And what knowledge do I need?
In fact, you have to organize your own training. The apprenticeship of camera technician no longer exists. Manufacturers train their own service personnel for current SLRs and lenses. There is no capacity for yesterday's photographic equipment. This is understandable, as it has long since been discontinued.
After initial attempts at tinkering on my own, I put together this
DIY curriculum
I'm making good progress with it, as can be seen from the success rate of my service and repair projects:
Handling of basic tools and working through an introductory book on the subject of camera repairs.
Basics of analog and digital electronics with the aim of understanding and being able to follow the basic terms and processes.
Soldering and desoldering cables and electronic components.
Optics and precision mechanics: understanding of basic components and principles.
Technical calculations, converting formulas, calculating with fractions and powers, using technical calculators or apps/software.
That doesn't sound easy either
And indeed, you have to deal with technical topics, since you are working with technology. But it's not about becoming a master of mechanics and optics or an electrical engineer, but rather about acquiring basic knowledge that you can build on later if you want to.
Master Thomas Tomosy
To get started, I recommend the two books by Thomas Tomosy, which provide a clear and understandable introduction to the subject:
Camera Maintenance & Repair, Book 1: Fundamental Techniques: A Comprehensive, Fully Illustrated Guide
Camera Maintenance & Repair, Book 2: Advanced Techniques: A Comprehensive, Fully Illustrated Guide
Tomosy's books are out of print and only available second-hand at high prices. Amazon offers them as Kindle editions. It is also possible that the books are available as free downloads from the Internet Archive.
Both books were published in the late 1990s and provide a comprehensive overview with a focus on practical application. The common electromechanical SLRs are discussed in detail in some cases, but other camera types are also covered.
Current tools and equipment
The books are still up to date in terms of the basics, but tools and available devices (camera testers, autocollimators) are now available in improved forms or with new technology. You can easily research this yourself once you have an overview of what you need.
This also applies to the other points I mentioned above. With the basics acquired from Tomosy, you can organize further knowledge yourself. See also the links below.
Specialized technical documentation
With these basics, you can then familiarize yourself with the technical documentation for individual SLRs. These are primarily the issues of the SPT Journal and the repair manuals from the manufacturers. We will come to this in more detail later.
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A word of cautionPlease keep in mind that you’ll be using highly flammable solvents for service work, and their fumes are harmful to your health. Soldering also produces fumes that should not be inhaled. Dangerous high voltages can be present when handling electronics, especially in conjunction with electronic flash units and mains. Therefore, familiarize yourself with the safety regulations beforehand and ensure your safety. Depending on the activity, protective gear may be advisable.
All information provided without guarantee and use at your own risk.
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