Yashica 635 Aperture Blades Assembly

[FilmShooterX]

I have a Yashica 635 TLR. The aperture blades were stuck together and the setting dial unable to move. I was able to remove the shutter from the camera. I cleaned the shutter blades as well as the aperture blades. Now the problem. I finds the aperture blades impossible to be assembled. I can get 6 of the blades on the control ring easily. However, to insert the last 4, you have to lift the other blades to insert them under. I have tried for a couple of days without success. Has anyone done this before? If you have done this before can you share how it is done?

 

[monopix]

Yes I've done it several times. No I can't show you as I don't have any pictures. But put something in the middle to fill the hole so you can rest the blades on it then you can assemble them in a closed position which is easier. A tip for the future - don't dismantle them. Put the whole assembly in an ultrasonic cleaner.

 

[retina_restoration]

Whenever possible, it’s preferable to assemble the aperture blades on the mechanism plate (black plate, left in your photo) and then carefully position the case over top, rather than assembling them in the case.
I place the plate on a rubber stopper (through the center hole) to assemble the aperture, raising it above the work surface.

 

[film4Me]

A desperate last resort method is to lightly grease the blades and stick them together in their correct sequence, then after assembly, thoroughly wash the unit with lighter fluid working the blades in and out while they're in the bath. It'll need to be done 2-3 times, changing the fluid after the first wash. I've done this successfully with a 10 blade aperture, and it's still going strong after some years of use and checking it's operation now and then.

 

[dxqcanada]

As others have mentioned ... something in the middle to keep the blades open ... and Apply lots of Isopropyl Alcohol (I would not suggest grease) to all surfaces, as the cohesion of the liquid keeps the blades in position.
This takes practice and lots and lots of patience.

 

[Steve906]

Yes I've done thousands (not this particular one) Its just as you say, slide them under one by one into the closest hole first. I wouldn't suggest any other method - just patience and practice. Ensuring all the blades are flat helps. Maybe find a way to clamp the assembly in position on the bench so two hands are free, one to apply a little pressure downwards on the pin end of the one your lifting to keep it in the hole.

24 leaf Dallmeyers are fun

 

[grain elevator]

I've successfully held shutter blades together with a magnet. Maybe that works here, too? It should not be too strong and/or you must place something between it and the leaves to be able to separate them more easily. An electromagnet that can be turned off when done would be even better.
I've also tried using scotch tape, I don't recommend it. It sticks too well to freshly cleaned metal. Maybe good electrical tape is better.

 

[Nicholas Lindan]

...I've also tried using scotch tape, I don't recommend it. It sticks too well to freshly cleaned metal...

The adhesive strip from a post-it note or 3M removable Scotch Tape?

I have found the key is not to drink too much coffee. Being mildly drunk might help.

 

[MattKing]

Being mildly drunk might help.

Is that in relation to while you are doing the work, or after you have admitted failure?

 

[SalveSlog]

Problem arise when around half of the blades are in place - when you have to enter the rest of the blades under previous blades. I made a device (from wood) to hold the blades in place while the last ones are entered.
Here is from my first experience with aperture blade mounting. On a Welta Weltax' Tempor shutter.

 

[Nicholas Lindan]

Is that in relation to while you are doing the work, or after you have admitted failure?

It helps with both phases of a project.

 

[FilmShooterX]

Problem arise when around half of the blades are in place - when you have to enter the rest of the blades under previous blades. I made a device (from wood) to hold the blades in place while the last ones are entered.
Here is from my first experience with aperture blade mounting. On a Welta Weltax' Tempor shutter.

Thank you. I have shelved this repair for the moment. I was thinking something similar. I will give this another go.