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Problem with my M2?

Johanb

By Johanb
in Leica M-A / M7 / MP and Film M

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Johanb

Johanb

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Hello everybody!

 

I've been following this forum for quite some time and I reckon someone here probably knows the answer to my problem.

 

I've been photographing a lot with my M2 lately, and developing my own film. Most of the time I'm very pleased with the result but on occasion I've come across the same problem. Streaks on my negatives. The streaks always looks the same and they seem to appear when I hold the camera vertical (I also think more often when shooting against the light).

 

I've added an example, very low-res-scan but I think it's easy to make out anyways. There is no problem with the exposure before or the one after and if I look at the film the streak is only inside the frame.

 

Anyone got a clue?

 

Thanks!

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earleygallery

earleygallery

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Most likely a light leak, but as the sun appears to be just in the frame it could be the cause.

 

Have you any other examples?

 

Does the 'leak' appear on the negatives outside of the image i.e. does it extend over the sprocket holes?

 

If you take the lens off the camera, open the back and point the camera lens throat towards a bright light can you see any signs of light from the back?

 

It's really a process of elimination. If it is a light leak you will need to send it for a CLA as there are numerous light seals in the body and shutter that may need replacing. Be sure to send some image examples with the camera.

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Johanb

Johanb

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Thank you for fast replies!

 

I've checked the camera several times without the lens and I really can't detect any lightleaks.

 

However when I look at the negatives again the streak stays in the frame but when I look at the sun (top right) the sunflare acctually goes outside the frame and into the next one. Must have missed it since I only checked the streak-side. Does that mean it's a light leak or is it only something reflecting in-camera?

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earleygallery

earleygallery

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From what you have said I would suggest it's both.

 

The light is leaking in the camera, most probably through the viewfinder/rangefinder windows down into the film chamber. When you exposed that shot the sunlight has also crept beyond the film gate.

 

Unfortunately you will need to send the camera to someone for repair. There is a list of specialists on the forum, depending where you are, or if you have a local s/h camera dealer you could speak to them - most have a repairer they will use.

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earleygallery

earleygallery

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True, I just really dislike beeing without my camera :)

 

Anyone got a clue as to what a CLA costs at Solms?

 

Don't send it to Leica! Check the list of specialists or ask a local dealer.

 

Leica are not so good with older models IMHO and I've heard they actually farm the work out anyway. Also they're moving at present so there will be delays.

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Nick_S

Nick_S

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Don't send it to Leica! Check the list of specialists or ask a local dealer.

 

Leica are not so good with older models IMHO and I've heard they actually farm the work out anyway. Also they're moving at present so there will be delays.

Well this is a bit of a shock. Surely there is not that much difference between an M2 and a current MP camera body. Does this mean that all servicing of mechanical bodies at Leica may go out to a third party contract repairer?

 

Nick

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earleygallery

earleygallery

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True, I just really dislike beeing without my camera :)

 

Anyone got a clue as to what a CLA costs at Solms?

 

Well this is a bit of a shock. Surely there is not that much difference between an M2 and a current MP camera body. Does this mean that all servicing of mechanical bodies at Leica may go out to a third party contract repairer?

 

Nick

 

No, but I've heard that some work is.

 

An M2 is much older than an MP and there's a different approach for older gear. Leica will want to replace parts rather than repair them, and there are some parts they don't have any more. An independent will usually repair or hold spares from broken cameras. If money is no object send it to Leica.

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stephen.w

stephen.w

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True, I just really dislike beeing without my camera :)

 

Anyone got a clue as to what a CLA costs at Solms?

Where are you based? I had my camera repaired and serviced locally by a Leica-trained repairman for what would have been just the cost of the shipping to Solms.
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earleygallery

earleygallery

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Where are you based? I had my camera repaired and serviced locally by a Leica-trained repairman for what would have been just the cost of the shipping to Solms.

 

When my M2 needed a shutter repair I contacted Leica for an estimate, they said minimum £400 + parts + VAT and this was a number of years ago. It was repaired for about £100 by a general camera repairer and it's been fine to this day.

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Johanb

Johanb

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Where are you based? I had my camera repaired and serviced locally by a Leica-trained repairman for what would have been just the cost of the shipping to Solms.

 

 

I'm in Sweden. I guess I'll check the local market. Leica estimated it to anywhere between 500-100 euros and that money would acctually buy me a "new" M6 instead.

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  • 3 months later...
Johanb

Johanb

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Thought I'd bump this thread.

 

So I had my M2 serviced. The tec couldn't find any problems with the shutter or with any lightleak. The reflections that were on the gate got taken care of. Problem is I still get banding on some images, usually when shooting with large apertures. Anyone got any clues? Could it be something reflecting on/in the lens?

 

Regards

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payasam

payasam

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About the earlier problem, I'd agree with normclarke. I've also had trouble with light seals, on M Leicas and on screw Leicas. Could you post two pictures, one horizontal and one vertical, so that I understand what you mean by "banding"?

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