Zorki 4K/Jupiter 8 questions

[Meow7]

Hi all, I have recently picked up a really clean Zorki 4K and Jupiter 8 lens. I have a couple of issues. After searching the web I’m sort of aware of these issues but still confused. N the RF when I focus I can focus on vertical things, bringing the images together, but horizontally no, there is always the double image above the subject. I have adjusted the screw which does not affect the horizontal double image.

Nextly, the red focal line does not line up with the center of the camera. Also it does not stop at the 1 meter mark, but it does stop at infinity, and when focused at infinity it is spot on.

I know I’m singing the same sad song of many but not sure what to do. Is it the camera? Is it the lens? What exactly is the adjustment for the horizontal in the RF. I could get another lens and try it... outside, with greater DOF it does ok, closer focusing with shallow DOF it is not in focus.

Maybe it just is what it is...

Thanks for any ideas!

 

[McFortner]

Well, the problem with the focal line not centering is common with LTM cameras, so I wouldn't worry about it. I even have a Leica Summaron and a Leica Elmar that don't line up, even on my Leica III cameras.

As far as the lens not stopping at the 1 meter mark, all my lenses go a little bit past the last mark on the lens. That's normal too. I would assume that is just the closest distance that the manufacturer feels confident in putting a mark on the lens for.

As far as the rangefinder vertical alignment goes, according to a post at http://forum.mflenses.com/zorki-4k-lots-of-questions-t45307.html, the adjustment screw is behind a the screw to the left of the viewfinder window on the front of the camera. If it's like other FSU cameras, you'll need a set of jeweler's screwdrivers. Remove the screw up front and the screw to adjust is behind that. I don't have a 4k, just a 4 (and a bunch of FEDs of different models) so your mileage may vary.

Michael

 

[Meow7]

Michael, I have been reading that many of the LTM lenses don't line up to the center and don't land at M. I have futzed with the adjustment screw and got pretty close to being accurate. But, it still is what would be called back focusing. It's fine out in the field, greater DOF, but closer and shallow DOF it is very off. I do like things to be in focus when I focus on them! Unfortunately to adjust the vertical alignment on the 4K you have to take the top of the camera off. I'm not prepared to do that. I suppose I could send it someone and have it made perfect. Are you in Stockbridge MA? Just Curious

 

[BrianVS]

The vertical alignment problem that you have will affect the rangefinder accuracy of the camera: it needs to be corrected before setting the horizontal alignment.
I have a pair of Zorki 3Ms- same basic viewfinder, one was like yours is now. I had to pop the top to correct the problem- many years ago. I don't recall what I did, but it was obvious once the top was open.
A Kodak Signet 80: also a 1x viewfinder, interchangeable lenses: that one I remember how the vertical alignment was set: pressure required to push down on the mechanism, used some foam rubber under the top plate. The alternative was to recement the prism.

 

[Meow7]

I am afraid to pop the top... Though I know that will fix the vertical problem.

 

[Mozg31337]

I have Zorki 4K with black J8 lens and all I can say that it was working pretty spot on for close distance and infinity. I've not had any issues with the range finder either. Looks like you will either need to send it off to a repairman or get it done yourself. The Zorki 3 with silver J8 and J3 that I have are also spot on. They are tiny bit front focusing wide open, but stopped down to 2.8 / 4 I can't really spot the difference and the subject looks just fine.