For my current F4 service/repair projects, I have gained an overview of the information resources available (see links below).
Overall, it's a very encouraging situation: everything you need for DIY service/repair in terms of instructions/information is available.
Limits
With the F4, there are limits to what you can do yourself.
The following work can only be carried out with the Nikon F4 Computer Interface/Factory Computer System system that is not available (see SPT Journal, page 5):
Experience to date shows that this work is rarely necessary.
The most common problem, a malfunction of the aperture control, can be fixed DIY.
The Nikon F4 Repair and Support System
consists of a check flowchart and an electronic trouble diagnostic system, the latter is also unavailable (see links).
Recommendations
I recommend planning and carrying out all DIY work with the help of the SPT Journal. It is a detailed and illustrated guide to the technology of the F4, including instructions for disassembly/assembly and troubleshooting, written in an understandable way.
Additional information/details can primarily be found in the Nikon Service Manual.
Nikon F4 SPT Journal
Nikon F4 Parts List
Nikon F4 Repair and Support System
Nikon F4 Technical Guide
Nikon F4 Instruction Manual
Multi Photomic Finder DP-20 Repair Manual
Battery Pack MB-20 Parts List
High Speed Battery Pack MB-21 Repair Manual
External Power Regulator MB-22 Repair Manual
Multi-Power High Speed Battery Pack MB-23 Parts List
+++
A word of caution
Please 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.
Acknowledgments
Without the work of Master Larry Lyells, in particular, we wouldn’t have the detailed technical information we need today for service/repair of SLRs.
The SPT Journal and The Camera Craftsman, which he helped shape significantly as an author, and which contain all the necessary information and instructions are available for a fee through Learn Camera Repair.
We owe our access to them to Eugene Pate, the founder of Learn Camera Repair.
Overall, it's a very encouraging situation: everything you need for DIY service/repair in terms of instructions/information is available.
Limits
With the F4, there are limits to what you can do yourself.
The following work can only be carried out with the Nikon F4 Computer Interface/Factory Computer System system that is not available (see SPT Journal, page 5):
- Replacing the main FPC.
- Replacing the AF base plate.
- Replacing the front-plate/mirror-box assembly.
Experience to date shows that this work is rarely necessary.
The most common problem, a malfunction of the aperture control, can be fixed DIY.
The Nikon F4 Repair and Support System
consists of a check flowchart and an electronic trouble diagnostic system, the latter is also unavailable (see links).
Recommendations
I recommend planning and carrying out all DIY work with the help of the SPT Journal. It is a detailed and illustrated guide to the technology of the F4, including instructions for disassembly/assembly and troubleshooting, written in an understandable way.
Additional information/details can primarily be found in the Nikon Service Manual.
Nikon F4 SPT Journal
Nikon F4 Parts List
Nikon F4 Repair and Support System
Nikon F4 Technical Guide
Nikon F4 Instruction Manual
Multi Photomic Finder DP-20 Repair Manual
Battery Pack MB-20 Parts List
High Speed Battery Pack MB-21 Repair Manual
External Power Regulator MB-22 Repair Manual
Multi-Power High Speed Battery Pack MB-23 Parts List
+++
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.
Acknowledgments
Without the work of Master Larry Lyells, in particular, we wouldn’t have the detailed technical information we need today for service/repair of SLRs.
The SPT Journal and The Camera Craftsman, which he helped shape significantly as an author, and which contain all the necessary information and instructions are available for a fee through Learn Camera Repair.
We owe our access to them to Eugene Pate, the founder of Learn Camera Repair.
