Om4 Flash Synchronization

M

Michael Da Re

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Oct 13, 2006
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I just picked up an OM4 from KEH. It's UG condition and it's from their as-is cameras but for $23.00 I'll take a chance. The flash sync doesn't work. Does this matter if you never use flash? And if it does can it be repaired?
Thanks in advance.
Michael
 
If you never use flash, the fact that the flash sync doesn't work isn't a problem, as long as there is no issue with the shutter otherwise. The problem can be fixed as long as it isn't caused by a circuit board problem, as replacement boards are unavailable these days.
 
Did you try sync socket AND hot shoe, same result? Could be flash switch contact problem. If sync socket works but hot shoe is ng it could be as simple as cleaning the contacts. Problem could also be bad transistor under top cover. John
 
I haven't yet received the camera from KEH but as soon as it arrives I will check the extent of damage. The problem is that I don't even own a flash that I could test it with. I have never used one with my OM's. Thank you for the replies. They give me a starting point.

Michael
 
I received my OM4 from KEH today. I put fresh batteries in and it fired right up. Everything seems to be working correctly. The only thing wrong with the flash is the flash shoe is loose and prevents the flash from making contact unless I shoot vertical. I need to remove the top to tighten the shoe but I have no idea what tools I would need and exactly what I need to remove. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Michael
 
I wouldn't try to lift the top cover of an OM-4 myself. The circuit board is crammed under the top cover and could be damaged/cracked if you aren't real careful and know what you're doing in removing and putting it back -- and the circuit board is not replaceable if damaged. I would have a professional -- like Camtech (John Hermanson) -- handle this for you. Since you only paid $23 bucks for the camera, for the cost of a CLA ($140 or so), you could have a good as new OM-4 for about $160+.
 
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I wouldn't try to fix it myself. The circuit board could be damaged if you aren't real careful and know what you're doing -- and the circuit board is not replaceable if damaged. Just take a look at what the circuit board looks like at www.zuiko.com to get an idea of what you would be dealing with. I would have a professional -- like Camtech -- handle this for you. Since you only paid $23 bucks for the camera, for the cost of a CLA ($140 or so), you could have a good as new OM-4 for about $160+.
 
dtcls100, I appreciate the concern but this is something I would rather attemped myself. I've never had a problem tearing into the unknown

Michael
 
Hot shoe screws go on from the inside. The circuit board picture on my site doesn't show the flex circuit inside the top cover. Hot shoe pins are soldered into the flex, and the flex (attached to the inside of the top cover with double sided tape) covers 2 of the screws that hold the hot shoe in. That circuit and "spot-high light-shadow" contact plate must be taken off and flex pealed up from the top cover to get at the screws. Not really a home job, imo. John
 
I especially value your input John when it comes to OM's. So for the time being I may just leave it be. It's not like I use flash that much if at all. But if I do decide to fix it I would much rather take it on myself with a camera that I didn't pay much for instead of one that I did.

Thank you all for your input,
Michael
 
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