Changing shutter speed on FED 3a

[w3rk5]

I just got a FED 3a from AlexPhoto off *bay. I have a question regarding changing the shutter speed.

Going counter clockwise, does it go like this? 1/30, B, 1/500, 1/250, 1/125, 1/60, 1/15, 1/8, 1/4, 1

Also, when I try to change the shutter speed from 500 to 1/15 (for example) it feels like it doesn't want to past 1/60. Anyone have any ideas? Thanks.

 

[kmack]

I have a 2l, which is similar, and it also gets "tight" when you go below 60.

 

[doubs43]

It may be that you're working against the resistance of the slow speed mechanism which "sets" as you adjust the speeds downward. The increased tension may feel to you as if it doesn't want to go. You should hear the gears turning as you take it to the slow speeds. My Zorki-4 works in just this manner and I'll bet your Fed3 does too.

Walker

 

[Kim Coxon]

There is a good explanation of how the FSU shutters work here http://rick_oleson.tripod.com/index-131.html

Kim

 

[w3rk5]

Thanks for the replies everyone. They helped alot. I think it needs a CLA. When I use the slow speeds 1/15 or slower the shutter gets stuck.

 

[Kim Coxon]

I would say that the grease is going/gone sticky on the timer mech. It certainly sounds as though it needs attention.

Kim

Thanks for the replies everyone. They helped alot. I think it needs a CLA. When I use the slow speeds 1/15 or slower the shutter gets stuck.

 

[w3rk5]

It's fixed! I removed the top of the camera and noticed some moving parts were bone dry. I just added a little oil to those parts and voila.....it's fixed Thanks for everyones help.