SLR mirror bumper foam

EdGallop · May 16, 2012

I know this question must have been asked before (probably several times) but I couldn't find it.

I have a Yashica FX-103 that needs new light seals and mirror bumper. I've replaced light seals before so that's no problem. I do have a question about the mirror bumper...

How close is the tolerance on these things. The reason I ask is that the foam that I have is not the same type of foam or the same thickness as what was originally on the camera. The thickness is pretty darn close, but not exactly the same. I have craft foam (like some use for light seals). Would that work for a mirror bumper? I also have some felt left from my light seal replacement on my electro 35. If the craft foam won't work, would the felt be ok?

Thanks for helping out a newbie.

Ed

dehk · May 16, 2012

Should work if its close enough.

kerne · May 16, 2012

Give Jon Goodman (Interslice) a holler at jgood21967@aol.com his light seal kits always fit perfectly.

But, I agree with dehk. It doesn't necessarily have to be millimeter perfect. Generally the foam Jon uses for the mirror bumper is a softer open cell foam than that used for the rear light seal to help absorb to the impact. Heavy craft foam tends to be much firmer. With felt, I might be slightly concerned about the fibers coming loose and mucking about in the inner workings.

EdGallop · May 16, 2012

I hadn't thought about that.

I have heard of Mr. Goodman's kits. I was just kind of thinking of this as a diy project to keep me busy for a day or so.

I did think of a solution, though. I have some of those foam paint "brushes" and those are open cell foam. I can cut a tiny slice off with an exacto knife and see how that compares. I think it should work.

Just wanted to make sure that I don't have to get it perfect. Foam is kind of difficult to measure accurately with a pair of calipers.

Ed

EdGallop · May 16, 2012

Oh, and I'm kind of a tinkerer, and I really believe in self-reliance. If I can do it myself, then I feel a kind of accomplishment that I wouldn't generally feel if I used a kit.

I'm sure that those kits are great, but I'm just kind of strange that way.

Ed

tkamiya · May 16, 2012

The mirror bumper does nothing but to cushion the mirror when slaps against some hard surface. It has no function in keeping the mirror at a specific angle or position. Unless it's widely off in terms of thickness, it'll be fine.

EdGallop · May 16, 2012

cool... that's what I was hoping to hear. LOL

Thanks!

Newt_on_Swings · May 16, 2012

Will work fine. Mirror foam can be less thick than original, but not thicker as it may block mirror from moving totally out the way.

SLR mirror bumper foam

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