Clean old PC sync connection

[D437]

I have a few old Dejur D1 rangefinders. I connected them via sync cord to an old Vivitar 2800 flash unit. One worked, the other didn't. I figure the faulty camera's sync connection--which is a short stem that sticks out-- is dirty or corroded inside but it's kind of tiny so I wondered how to get it clean inside. Outside was easy to clean. I'm not ready to take apart the camera so I wonder what kind of cleaner to use that won't damage the shutter blades--I believe the sync mechanism is connected to the shutter. (Note the attached photo is not the actual camera.)

 

[skucera]

That's a neat looking camera. I've never heard of a DeJur. I'll have to look it up.

I used round wooden toothpicks to clean out a PC socket. Just be careful not to wrench the tips of the toothpicks off inside the socket, and you should be OK. I just gently put the tip in the hole, rotated the toothpick to pick up gunk on the tip, then pulled it out and then repeated with the other end of the toothpick. I used three or fourth toothpicks in all to clean out that PC socket.

Good luck, take your time, and don't apply too much force so the tip doesn't break inside the socket.

Scott

 

[Ronald M]

I saw a repairman do the toothpick with lens tissue wrapped around it.

I suppose you could add some alcohol.

Sync contacts inside could be pitted or broken. Cheap flashes with high trigger voltage will ruin contacts.

 

[x-ray]

DeJur made a lot of slide projectors. I seem to remember they made 3D stereo cameras too.

There are PC tools available. Years ago I had one that took a battery and would indicate a short if you plugged your cord into it. It also had a tip cleaner and crimped to crimp the connector to tighten it. I also had a small brass tool that cleaned the outside and innER female part of the connector. You might find them at B&H or Adorama. I carry a brass crimping tool on my key ring.

 

[D437]

Dejur

Dejur

Thanks for all the suggestions. I would have thought a pin--being thinner--would be better than a toothpick. This is a 1957 camera with no electrical components so I wouldn't think there'd be anything to short out regardless of flash voltage. Pretty sure the shoe is cold. I know you'd never use the Vivitar 2800 or the Yashica Quick-Lite Pro DX-50 on a DSLR. I've tried those flashes on my Lynx 14E and they work fine. PS does anyone know why I might not get any notification of replies to my posts even though I have it set up here to do that? I never get notified.

 

[Doug]

I think it's fair to say that the PC connection is an electrical component, since it functions as a timed switch.

Notifications are not currently working, see this thread in the Help Forum:
http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=147067

 

[monopix]

I find an ultrasonic toothbrush with some ipa does a good job.

Sent from my SM-G903F using Tapatalk

 

[Jack Conrad]

Round wooden toothpicks are essential tools for cleaning cameras.
That said, I've also got an assortment of dental picks for digging out crud
from areas I'm not concerned about scratching. I might also use a stiff bristled
small art brush. Brushes are great for scrubbing larger areas too.