Repairs: Do it yourself or have it done?

Andreas Thaler · Dec 8, 2023

I keep reading here and in other forums that people don't have the confidence to repair their photo gear. Because they have no talent for it, no patience, don't have the right tools, and so on …

Others then give well-intentioned advice that you should just give your things to the workshop, the device will come back like new and you don't have to worry at all. So you're happy to pay XYZ for it. Or you should save yourself time and money on repairs and just buy a new, used device. And if you try to repair yourself, is gently hinted at, you can more or less only do botched work, risk your device, maybe you might even be crazy, a little at least

It's true …

… a lot of things - even most things - can't be repaired by yourself.

But who is faced with the decision of whether to replace all the electronics on their Leica R7 or give their Canon F-1 New a new mirror box?

Probably only a few.

But when it comes to …

… making battery contacts conductive again, cleaning the inside of your lens or replacing an electrolytic capacitor - and this happens much more often - you can do it yourself and save money. And it's fun, even if it takes time.

Should we do a little workshop here on what it takes to get started with simple repairs? Motivation, basic tools, deciding what you can do yourself and what it's better not to?

Or do we already have enough information about this in the forum?

I maintain that anyone can fix anything. It just depends on your goals and these can be managed.

How do you think about this topic?

Do it yourself or have it done?

KerrKid · Dec 8, 2023

A workshop would be welcome, IMHO.

What do you propose to start with?

Andreas Thaler · Dec 8, 2023

KerrKid said:
A workshop would be welcome, IMHO.

What do you propose to start with?

I suggest we do this together, everyone is an expert on certain topics, rarely two people work on the same topic at the same time.

In my view, the first step would be to clarify the motivation, at least the essentials. Do I want to fix this by myself, do I have the confidence to do it, what if it doesn't work?

The mood plays a bigger role here than you think. And many have probably had bad experiences when it comes to doing their own handicrafts. School, home, whatever. This has to go, it doesn't help.

Andreas Thaler · Dec 8, 2023

Then we could look at what repairs we want to do and what tools are needed. Not everyone needs everything, but a basic set is almost always used.

Andreas Thaler · Dec 8, 2023

And then we choose a project and implement it here together. The simpler, the better.

A good start might be for us to look at how to use a screwdriver well, how to solder, how to memorize the order in which parts are assembled, etc.

The more people participate, the more questions there are, the more productive for all. Everyone trains everyone else because everyone knows and can do something that the other doesn't yet know or can do.

The inhibition threshold must be lowered. That is the biggest obstacle to do own repairs.

KerrKid · Dec 8, 2023

Actually, a repair forum is probably a better idea than a thread. Perhaps even more than one repair forum dedicated to different camera and lens brands. Or at least different types of cameras and lenses - SLR's, DSLR's, Rangefinders, Primes, Zooms, etc. We could pin a thread in each forum that outlines common problems with a particular model.

Regardless, start with tools. What are the typical tools necessary to repair a camera and lens and where do we get them?

Chan Tran · Dec 8, 2023

I am all for it! I found disasembly/reassembly of a camera is very difficult. You also do have to peel off cover that meant to be replaced once it's removed but you have to reuse it. And sure we need to start with tool.

Andreas Thaler · Dec 8, 2023

KerrKid said:
Regardless, start with tools. What are the typical tools necessary to repair a camera and lens and where do we get them?

From my perspective:

screwdrivers (JIS for Japanese branded gear)
probes (to manipulate small parts, scrape off residues)
tweezers (to hold and manipulate parts)
scalpel
small universal pliers
Zippo lighter fluid (if available in your country, wound spirit from the drugstore does the same)
isopropyl alcohol (universal detergent)
cleaning swabs,
lint-free paper towels

I am a Vessel fan

Vessel 125610 9902 Precision Screwdriver Set https://a.co/d/gLTygO5

Precision Screwdriver Set | TD-56S Vessel JIS Made in Japan | 6 Piece Kit https://a.co/d/ipzYH9p

VESSEL Precision Screwdriver Set TD-56 / -0.9, -1.2, -1.8, -2.3, 00, 0 https://a.co/d/5luBsEZ

The longer screwdrivers give you more torque, while the shorter ones give you more control when screwing small or sensitive parts. I usually work with the longer ones, it's a matter of preference.

The very small slotted screwdrivers and Phillips screwdrivers are often needed for lenses.

Andreas Thaler · Dec 8, 2023

You should get everything here, but I only know the online shop for Europe:

Micro-Tools, Small Tools for Big Jobs

Micro-Tools sells small precision hand tools for camera, electronics, jewelry and watch repair. We offer a very large selection of precision pliers and cutters.

www.micro-tools.com

Andreas Thaler · Dec 8, 2023

Chan Tran said:
You also do have to peel off cover that meant to be replaced once it's removed but you have to reuse it.

Glue - Adhesive, Pliobond 1oz Tube

Adhesive, Pliobond 1oz Tube. Great for reattaching leather to a camera. If the covering is vinyl, I would recommend using the double sided tape. Adhesive for hose, gaskets, seals, rubber, leather, canvas, steel, fiberglass, aluminum. Quick dry. Withstands vibration, flexing and stretching. Light...

www.micro-tools.com

Paul Howell · Dec 8, 2023

It depends on the repair, if an all mechanical camera as long the part is not broken or worn out most issues can be fixed with enough time. There are a number of used DIY camera books on the market, you can sometimes find used manufactures manuals for specific cameras. With time you might find an intact set of corresponce courses that were sold in the 60s and 70s. Tools you can find. With a donor camera it is often possible to replace a broken or worn out part. Electronic systems present a different set of challenges. Needs meters, ability to solder small connections, ect. Most circuit and integrated circuit boards were designed for a specific camera and if no longer working can only be had with a doner camera. In theory some parts can be 3d printed, parts machined, finding a small parts machine shop willing to take a one off part will be a challenge. CDs and Silicon meters that have gone south are generally non replaceable. Next is the learning curve.

KerrKid · Dec 8, 2023

That's a good start.

Probe: What do you mean by this? Is this the same as a dental tool?

Scalpel: Would an X-Acto knife suffice or is a scalpel necessary. If so, what style blade?

Zippo Lighter Fluid: I have a bottle of Naptha which is easy to get in the US. I think this is the same as ZLF.

Cleaning swabs: By this, you mean "Q-tips"?

Thanks for the link to the Vessel tools.

Andreas Thaler · Dec 8, 2023

KerrKid said:
Probe: What do you mean by this? Is this the same as a dental tool?

Probe Set, 6Pc Precision Steel

6Pc Precision Probe Set includes probe No1, No2, No3, No4, No5 & No6.No1 Precision Probe w/ Straight tip, overall length 7 ¼ InchNo2 Precision Probe w/ 35 degree Bent Tip, overall length 6 3/16 InchNo5 Precision Probe w/ Hook tip, overall length 6 1/16 Inch.No3 Precision Probe w/ Double Bend...

www.micro-tools.com

KerrKid said:
Scalpel: Would an X-Acto knife suffice or is a scalpel necessary. If so, what style blade?

https://www.xacto.com/knives-blades.html

Looks great!

A straight blade and ones you feel comfortable with.

KerrKid said:
Zippo Lighter Fluid: I have a bottle of Naptha which is easy to get in the US. I think this is the same as ZLF.

Yes

KerrKid said:
Cleaning swabs: By this, you mean "Q-tips"?

Q-tips can make lint. That's why I like working with foam sticks. There are countless offers on Amazon, e.g.:

AAwipes Foam Cleaning Swab Sticks (200pcs 3.4mm Head Width Round Foam Tips, Black) Cleanroom Cleaning Swab Sponge Stick for Inkjet Printer, Camera (C709BLK) https://a.co/d/cYOzDjH

Andreas Thaler · Dec 8, 2023

Paul Howell said:
With time you might find an intact set of corresponce courses that were sold in the 60s and 70s.

Do you mean with this the National Camera publications?

Camera Repair Course | Learn Camera Repair

In the past, it was possible for an aspiring camera repair technician to go to school for it, just as one would do to learn many other skilled trades. Unfortunately, that is no longer true. The trade schools that once trained workers for the photographic equipment repair industry have all closed...

learncamerarepair.com

Andreas Thaler · Dec 8, 2023

Gasoline and alcohol are highly flammable and you should not breathe their fumes. Good ventilation is important. This also applies to adhesives, other solvents, chemicals that build up over time.

You should be very critical here because you don't usually use a lot of it, but it's not good for your health anyway.

For soldering, there are inexpensive extraction devices with carbon filters for the table that bind soldering fumes.

Andreas Thaler · Dec 8, 2023

Time to set my beloved disclaimer

But I think it is clear that these are only recommendations.

+++

All information provided without guarantee and use at your own risk.

Andreas Thaler · Dec 8, 2023

And another word from Vienna:

It's not important whether you manage to repair it. The important thing is that you try it.

Literally everything you gain on this way in terms of experience is your capital. And the fertile ground for success - today, tomorrow or the day after

Andreas Thaler · Dec 8, 2023

If you are interested, we could integrate this project into our topic:

Leica R3 MOT ELECTRONIC: Heading into the unknown

Our colleague @miha asked me if I would like to look at his R3 MOT. There is a problem with a jumping needle in the viewfinder. Maybe also the aperture priority mode is concerned. I was hesitant about whether I wanted to do this. Because I didn't have a Leica R on the table yet. And although...

www.photrio.com

I still have no exact plan how I'm going to tackle this. Just a basic approach.

First the motivation, whether I should actually try this, what could go wrong, what information can I find about it? Then the decision yes/no. If so, what tools do I need and how do I use them, what do I pay attention to, etc.

That means I write my usual repair report, but also go into these details.

But of course that's just a suggestion, I write too much here anyway

Paul Howell · Dec 8, 2023

Andreas Thaler said:
Do you mean with this the National Camera publications?

Camera Repair Course | Learn Camera Repair

In the past, it was possible for an aspiring camera repair technician to go to school for it, just as one would do to learn many other skilled trades. Unfortunately, that is no longer true. The trade schools that once trained workers for the photographic equipment repair industry have all closed...

learncamerarepair.com

That was one, there were a few others over the years, I knew a few fellow PJ who bought the course so they do an emergency repair in the field. I had a set of screw drivers, small forceps and sewing machine oil I would carry in my luggage, Never had a reason to use any of it, never had a Nikon F, F2. or 3P fail.

Andreas Thaler · Dec 8, 2023

Paul Howell said:
That was one, there were a few others over the years, I knew a few fellow PJ who bought the course so they do an emergency repair in the field. I had a set of screw drivers, small forceps and sewing machine oil I would carry in my luggage, Never had a reason to use any of it, never had a Nikon F, F2. or 3P fail.

I find this very interesting because there is relatively little literature on the subject of camera repairs.

Paul Howell · Dec 8, 2023

Not sure best source in the E.U, here in the U.S, Ebay, Thrift Books, it might time to find a complete set.

KerrKid · Dec 8, 2023

Andreas Thaler said:
If you are interested, we could integrate this project into our topic:

Leica R3 MOT ELECTRONIC: Heading into the unknown

Our colleague @miha asked me if I would like to look at his R3 MOT. There is a problem with a jumping needle in the viewfinder. Maybe also the aperture priority mode is concerned. I was hesitant about whether I wanted to do this. Because I didn't have a Leica R on the table yet. And although...

www.photrio.com

I still have no exact plan how I'm going to tackle this. Just a basic approach.

First the motivation, whether I should actually try this, what could go wrong, what information can I find about it? Then the decision yes/no. If so, what tools do I need and how do I use them, what do I pay attention to, etc.

That means I write my usual repair report, but also go into these details.

But of course that's just a suggestion, I write too much here anyway

A Leica repair probably wouldn't be of much value to me other than learning some general repair techniques. But I'd be happy to follow whatever you posted.

Chuck1 · Dec 8, 2023

I have a nikon fm2 with a shutter that locks up(or sticks) if I switch it to B it releases, then I use the multiple exposure to not lose the frame. If it sits overnight it will lock like this, once freed it's good for the day. So I have a way around it, but I would like it to work.(I got it from KEH, and when I talked to them they don't do repairs...)
It seems like something under the bottom cover? But what I don't know.
Do you think I should attempt the repair myself, or is that an indicator of a total CLA?

Mark J · Dec 8, 2023

Andreas Thaler said:
But who is faced with the decision of whether to replace all the electronics on their Leica R7

Why did you have to be so cruel to pick out THAT particular scenario ? !!

Andreas Thaler · Dec 8, 2023

Mark J said:
Why did you have to be so cruel to pick out THAT particular scenario ? !!

Maybe because I once spent a fortune let repair this camera? And didn't manage that?

Repairs: Do it yourself or have it done?

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