OM10 erratic self timer

[Anon Ymous]

Hello...

I've got an Olympus OM10, and as the thread title says, its self timer has become erratic. The camera has fresh, in date batteries and when used without the self timer in either auto, or manual mode (I have the manual adapter) seems to work normally.

• When using the self timer in manual mode, it will simply fire instantly.
• When using the self timer in auto mode, it will delay according to the intensity of light it sees! With a lens cap on, it will mostly delay for 12'' (the normal time). Without a lens cap, it will fire almost instantly and will delay a bit when selecting smaller apertures and/or the ambient light is low.

I know that these cameras are a dime a dozen etc, but this one has a fair bit of sentimental value for me. So, does anyone have an idea about what the problem is and what can be done?

 

[Ricardo Miranda]

Check the main switch contacts and if the switch is fully turned to the self-timer position.
While the On/Off and the check positions require very little turn of the dial, the self-timer position pointer needs to go fully towards the back.
The main dial has a tendency with use and the years to go very wobbly. How's yours?

 

[Anon Ymous]

When you say "check the main switch contacts", do you mean disassemble and clean them if needed? If yes, how do I do that? Do I unscrew the screw of the rewind lever?

The position of the switch was correct, all the way to the back. The switch isn't wobbly at all, but gets a little stiff when turning it to the "self timer" position. About a month or so ago I replaced the light seals at the back and had to use some alcohol to clean the adhesive from the previous seals. Could some of the gunk find its way inside the body and deposit itself at the self timer's contact?

 

[Ricardo Miranda]

It's all good.
No, you shouldn't disassemble it.