M4-P: slow shutter speeds, strange sound ?

[maddoc]

I haven't used my M4-P for a couple of weeks and just realized that the shutter makes a strange sound at times slower than 1/30 s. After the shutter has fired a sound like metal parts scratching is audible. Repeatedly firing the shutter at low and fast speeds didn't solve the problem. I remember that my M3s made a different sound at slow shutter speeds compared with my MP or former M6 but I am afraid that the shutter brake of M4-P may need service ... Any experience with it ?

Gabor

 

[colyn]

A buzzing sound is normal if that is what you are talking about. It's the slow speed escapement returning to the rest position. Some cameras are louder than others.

If the shutter brake needed service you'd hear a loud clapping sound after firing the shutter at all speeds not just the slow speeds.

Set the shutter speed to 1 second and fire it while holding the camera to your ear. You should hear the escapement winding then after the shutter has fired you should hear it winding back.

 

[maddoc]

colyn: Thanks a lot ! "buzzing sound" is exactly what I meant. I will test my camera today after work as you described it. I am just worried that this sound became louder recently and something is going to get broken ....

 

[colyn]

Since the M4-P has been out of production for a number of years now it would be a good idea to have it CLA'd.

These cameras tend to be a bit louder when they are in need of service.

 

[maddoc]

CLA might me good idea

 

[colyn]

CLA might me good idea

I should be getting my M3 back from DAG soon. He did a CLA plus shutter curtain replacement on it so it will be like new..

 

[Xmas]

You only need a CLA when you dont get the ping pong zsssss at 1/15.

The strange noise is your escapment spinning as it has no friction to slow it down, gummy lube no strange noise, needs CLA for sure then.

Noel

 

[kully]

I posted the exact same question when I got my M2.

As Xmas says - start worrying when the ping...whirr...pong stops.

And congratulations on the M4!

 

[JNewell]

You only need a CLA when you dont get the ping pong zsssss at 1/15.

That's the best description of that expected sound I've heard!

One thing - my M5 didn't do that, even after a CLA. I asked DAG about that and though I don't remember the details, my memory is that he said that was normal with the M5 and in fact the way it should sound, due IIRC to some mechanical difference in the shutter.

 

[Chris101]

Thanks! These great descriptions of the sound let me know that my own M4P is functioning normally.

 

[maddoc]

After sending my M4-P to Youxin Ye for service, I received it back today and now it works fine and smooth . The lubricants were dried out and that caused the strange sound. Just loaded a roll of film and happy shooter again ...