How to fix the flash socket on a Mamiya Universal lens?

[DannyTreacy]

Does anyone know if this is possible to DIY?

I have a 100mm lens, the flash socket is missing the two screws that hold it on so it's just hanging on by the wire that makes the circuit, obviously screwing it back on is an easy fix but it doesn't currently fire a flash when synced with radio remotes so I think there may be a wiring/connection problem.

Does anyone know a fix for this besides sending it off to a repair shop?

Thanks.

Danny.

 

[Spanik]

The screws are part of the circuit IIRC. Better said, the internal switch makes a contact between the center conductor and the outside of the connector. If your connector isn't making contact with the rest of the lens it won't work.

 

[charjohncarter]

Spanik, thanks for that answer, I have a couple of Mamiya 23 lenses, and I always worry about that piece breaking off.

 

[Spanik]

Got one where it is hanging with only a single screw so it looks a common problem.

Does anybody knows what kind of screw it is?

 

[Sarcophilus Harrisii]

If the mounting screws are absent it is probably not grounding, in which case replacing the absent screws is likely to effect a fix to the circuit. Easy enough to establish with a meter set to the ohms scale. I would have some hope of the screws being generic enough that raiding a few donor Japanese cameras may produce usable substitutes, if absolute originality is not an essential requirement.
Cheers,
Brett

 

[B-9]

Take it down to your local hardware, you should be able to find what you need. I doubt its anything special. Good luck!

 

[Spanik]

Take it down to your local hardware, you should be able to find what you need. I doubt its anything special. Good luck!

They don't have anything smaller than M4 (that a 4mm bolt). Those are larger than the socket itself 😀

It isn't a problem ordering some model-engineering screws/bolts but at the prices they ask I don't want to have to order a dozen types because then I can just as well buy another lens.

 

[Spanik]

If the mounting screws are absent it is probably not grounding, in which case replacing the absent screws is likely to effect a fix to the circuit.

I'm afraid it is a fix. If your socket is only hanging on the single wire, then there is no way to make a contact. The outside of the socket has to make contact with the lens. Also easy to try.

 

[besk]

I have a similar problem with one of my lenses. Unfortunately the bracket is broken.
Haven't figured out how to fix it yet.

 

[DannyTreacy]

Thanks for the feedback, I hope it will fix it if I find the screws, I'm thinking maybe an optician might have screws that would fit.

 

[ColSebastianMoran]

Danny, for a test, remove one screw from the flash connector on one of your other lenses. That will tell you if it's the grounding problem.

 

[DannyTreacy]

Danny, for a test, remove one screw from the flash connector on one of your other lenses. That will tell you if it's the grounding problem.

Thanks for the tip, I tried it and it worked, oddly the sync would only fire the flash in 'M' setting not 'X', not sure why that is but don't suppose it makes a difference?

Now to find two replacement screws!

 

[oftheherd]

Thanks for the tip, I tried it and it worked, oddly the sync would only fire the flash in 'M' setting not 'X', not sure why that is but don't suppose it makes a difference?

Now to find two replacement screws!

I don't know but since there are two settings, each with its own delay or lack of it, it may take both screws in place, one for each sync setting. If I don't come back and say something tonight or tomorrow, keep bugging me with PMs or something. I have a book on Mamiya lenses with blow-ups of the parts. I remember that it did, but it might have sizes.

You might try any model airplane or train hobby stores. They might be willing to open 2 or 3 of the more likely sizes for you to try in-store. But I know that some of the Japanese screwdrivers allowed for different screw heads, so you might need to look for Japanese screws as well.

 

[DannyTreacy]

I don't know but since there are two settings, each with its own delay or lack of it, it may take both screws in place, one for each sync setting. If I don't come back and say something tonight or tomorrow, keep bugging me with PMs or something. I have a book on Mamiya lenses with blow-ups of the parts. I remember that it did, but it might have sizes.

You might try any model airplane or train hobby stores. They might be willing to open 2 or 3 of the more likely sizes for you to try in-store. But I know that some of the Japanese screwdrivers allowed for different screw heads, so you might need to look for Japanese screws as well.

I found screws that fit well, got them from a optometrist.

I will do a test on Fuji instant to see if there's any flash issues shooting with the sync switch set to 'M' apparently this is for flash bulbs as oppose to electric flash.

Hopefully it will be fine as I have a two day shoot next week and want to use the 2.8 100mm lens as I will be lighting outside with 600w lights.

If you manage to find any info re what the difference in flash setting actually means that would be great as it will be one less thing to worry about!

Thanks.

 

[sevo]

I will do a test on Fuji instant to see if there's any flash issues shooting with the sync switch set to 'M' apparently this is for flash bulbs as oppose to electric flash.

Of course there is - it will trigger the flash 1/30s before the shutter opens. Desirable if you use medium delay bulbs (with a corresponding 1/30s delay until they reach full power), but electronic flashes have a burn time shorter than 1/250s and instant ignition, so none of their light will reach the film when triggered with M timing...

 

[Spanik]

Good news!

 

[oftheherd]

Of course there is - it will trigger the flash 1/30s before the shutter opens. Desirable if you use medium delay bulbs (with a corresponding 1/30s delay until they reach full power), but electronic flashes have a burn time shorter than 1/250s and instant ignition, so none of their light will reach the film when triggered with M timing...

sevo is correct. Don't even think of using the M setting unless you are using flash bulbs. The good news is that you can use electronic flash across the shutter speed range with electronic flash, and all will be properly synched, assuming everything in your shutter is working correctly. But that is what your testing is for.

 

[DannyTreacy]

sevo is correct. Don't even think of using the M setting unless you are using flash bulbs. The good news is that you can use electronic flash across the shutter speed range with electronic flash, and all will be properly synched, assuming everything in your shutter is working correctly. But that is what your testing is for.

Its definitely not working with flash using the 'x' sync.

Does anyone know of a diy fix? Or anything to look for in fixing it?

I called a UK Mamiya repair place and they want £90 and aren't even sure they can fix it!

Danny.

 

[sevo]

Its definitely not working with flash using the 'x' sync.

Does anyone know of a diy fix? Or anything to look for in fixing it?

Well, flash sync in shutters of that type and age tends to be quite simple. Every repair person specializing in leaf shutters ought to be able to fix it. But the first few shutters you'll attempt to DIY will probably die in the attempt, and you'll have to spend more than 90UKP on getting the right tools and learning it.

 

[Spanik]

If you have the 100/2.8 then I would also advise to have it properly fixed.