Spotmatic Slow Speed Governor Cleaning

[3 Olives]

I bought a really nice black Spotmatic body for $35.00 knowing the 1 second shutter speed was off. I was told the slow speed governor needed cleaning. Is this a job an amateur can attempt? I bought it with the intention of having a CLA done so it is no big deal either way. In fact, I'll probably never use a 1 second exposure - I'm just a perfectionist about cameras.

 

[lxdude]

Operate it for a while-it might loosen up by itself. When I pulled out my old Fujica ST801 after 10 years all the slow speeds were off. The 1 second speed completely stalled. I had to switch to a faster speed to get the shutter to close. After some exercise the old grease loosened up and now it's fine, and all speeds are accurate. I'd have it CLA'd, but I really only got it out so I could finish shooting Kodachrome with the same camera I started shooting it with.

 

[lxdude]

You're right Ben. No substitute for a CLA.

 

[benjiboy]

You're right Ben. No substitute for a CLA.

You must be a mind reader

 

[lxdude]

Woahh, dude! Don't do that! Yer freakin' me out!

 

[benjiboy]

Woahh, dude! Don't do that! Yer freakin' me out!

I studiously avoided replying to the original post when I read it in case people thought I was a pain, but you read my mind.

 

[mgb74]

... In fact, I'll probably never use a 1 second exposure ...

In other words, for your purposes, it ain't broke.

Not suggesting that a CLA isn't justified, just not truly necessary.

 

[lxdude]

I studiously avoided replying to the original post when I read it in case people thought I was a pain, but you read my mind.

But...
I thought you...
Didn't you...
Um...hm.

Whoooah.