Fujica Compact 35

[davidw99]

Hi,

I'm new to the forum. I just purchased a Fujica Compact 35 (not the deluxe). The camera seems to be in generally good condition except the shutter is stuck. I can hear a small sound when I push the shutter button but no shutter action. I have been trying to find information on disassembly and repair but with no luck. Has anyone else had this problem with this camera and fixed it? If so, I would appreciate any pointers you can give.

Thanks.

 

[FrankS]

Welcome to RFF, David!

Fixed lens rf cameras are often difficult to work on, but I don't know if your fuji is the same. Sorry, I can't help, other than wishing you luck. Buying a working camera may be the best course of action for you.

 

[oftheherd]

Hopefully someone can help who has specific knowledge of that camera. If not, it might be worthwhile to google for other similar cameras and see how they are gotten into; especially other Fujica camers.

Good luck. If you decide to tackle it, please take lots of photos and provide notes so other members of RFF can lear.

 

[Clark.EE]

Sticky blades.
Need flushing out with Lighter fluid.
Which means removing front element group at least.
Looking at mine it is front element focusing. (Zone focus not Rangefinder, but with full manual controls!!!!)
It looks like the name ring needs unscrewing around the front element. then that should give you access to lens & how it comes out!
Mine wont budge however!

 

[VictorM.]

There's this: http://homepage1.nifty.com/fukucame/daisaku/d29.htm

 

[davidw99]

Thank you all. I did repair the aperture blades on a Fujica V2 a while ago by unscrewing the front ring and using lighter fluid. I have been having a hard time getting into this one. Like Clark said above, the front element or ring doesn't want to come off. I thought about trying to unscrew the rear element from inside the camera and may give it a try this weekend. I did find a flickeflu site with an exploded view of one and it is helpful to a degree. http://flickeflu.com/set/72157628030843665. I'll keep you informed.

 

[VictorM.]

It looks as if the lens comes off as a complete assembly, leaving the shutter parts in the body.

 

[davidw99]

Hi,


I think I have it solved. I pealed off the leatherette and took off the front panel by unscrewing the four screws holding it on. I then used lighter fluid on the hole on the lens when a lever re-cocks the shutter. The shutter started working but then stuck open after a while. It took three more tries but now it seems to be working consistently. The meter also seems to work. I removed the old seals on the rear door and replace them with some strips cut from sticky foam sheet material that I bought at a local craft store. If the shutter keeps working (and the snow relents) I'll put a roll of film through it.

Question. The focus ring on the lens does not seem to do anything. It rotates and the front element turns with the ring but the front element does not seem to move in or out. At least if it does not perceptibly. Does nay one else have one of these and if you do, what is your experience with the focus?

Any way, thanks to everyone for your suggestions and help.

 

[RattyMouse]

Boiling nitric acid can often fix sticky shutters and/or apertures.

 

[davidw99]

I've answered my own question. The front element does move but only by about 1mm at the most from closest focus to infinity focus. It's almost like the lens is a fixed focus - which is probably ok considering that focus is a guestimate. It may make a difference wide open. I took a roll of film and am having it developed. Can't wait to see what this camera can do.