Help and advice with M3 issue please

[Boojay]

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Just looking for some advice on my ongoing problem with a M3 Circa 1956 Double Stroke, and much loved by myself and its only one other previous owner.  Purchased from a reputable Leica dealer here in UK so I do have warranty.  I have already sent the camera in once to have what was described as a shutter curtain sticking problem fixed, but having just shot another three rolls of film I seem to be seeing the same problem.  Sample screenshot below.

 

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In the three rolls (lab developed) the problem occurs in about a third of each roll.   I have contacted them again and will be sending it in - but any thoughts please?  

 

Thank you.

 

 

[a.noctilux]

CLA needed.

I don't see another choice than sending your M3 to a reputable repairer.

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[TomB_tx]

Yes - shutter capping. The second curtain is catching up to the first curtain, because the first curtain is slowing. This becomes more of an issue at faster speeds, so chances are the frames that looked OK were set to slower speeds.

A "proper" CLA will strip down and remove all traces of the old, sticky lubricants before lubing frsh and assembling.If new lube is simply added without cleaning it may work briefly and then gum up again.

My 1955 DS had worse shutter problems when the original owner gave it to me, but has been a great camera after proper service.

Edited May 26, 2018 by TomB_tx

[earleygallery]

There appear to be 2 issues, shutter capping but also a light leak. The leak could be due to slackness in the shutter curtains or could be light getting in via the viewfinder area.

 

As the dealer has already attempted a repair I’d be inclined to ask for a refund and find another camera.

[Boojay]

Thanks guys.  Pretty much what I thought.  Camera was purchased end of April and was back with the dealer for nearly three weeks since then.  It came with a twelve month warranty so they will have to sort it out.  Because it is in good condition cosmetically, and because from everything said about the M3 it should be possible to correct all these issues I will give them another opportunity before giving up on it.  As Leica main agents they should be able to get this fixed, seems to me quick fix tried the first time.  Thanks again.