Nikon FE2 Meter Needle Question

[jamesn67]

I recently purchased an FE2 to add to my collection of 35mm slr's. It is in really nic condition and all seems to work as it should (haven't run a roll through it yet) except for the meter black needle. When I go to match the black needle with the green it is apparent that the black needle angle is off. I have attached a pic. If I match the tail of the black needle the exposure is correct so I believe the metering system is good its just an issue with the needle being bent/damaged. anyone have this issue and fix it? I have tried going through the mirror box but there is really nothing I can do from there. I think I have to pull th top cover then pentaprism if I wan to really try to fix. Aside from ignoring or sending out for repair any recommendations?

 

[Daire Quinlan]

I don't have my fe2 handy but from recollection you're right, the black needle should be roughly at the same angle as the green needle at the same point on the readout. If it's working correctly I'd leave it, but I'd compare to another FE2 or similar to ensure it's at least reasonably accurate across the range. OTOH The black needle might be loose or floppy or something which would probably necessitate a repair.

 

[Michael Guzzi]

I just checked my FE-2, both needles are exactly parallel to each other. Run a roll trough it, it may be just fine. I use mine on A mode all the time, only changing to 250 when using my Metz hammer flash; any deviations from the "recommended" exposure I use the exposure readout lever thingy (not sure of the proper name of it, it's on the same lever as the timer), or the exposure compensator dial.

And I would advise against trying a home fix unless you have experience on it. Chances are there will be an awful lot of small screws and parts to lose on the floor...

 

[John Koehrer]

Changeable screen? Could be somebody was a bit careless.