konica S2 speed selector lube.

[fidget]

Hi, my first RF from only a few years ago was my S2. I used it to take some pics of the inside of our town hall and entered them into my first mono competition. I thought that the detail was good at 12x16 and that this was about the level I could expect from an old 35mm camera. Looking at my more recent MF work and some other 35mm RF output, I think that I may have underestimated this cameras abilities and would like to use it some more. The lens is in outstanding condition and the rest of the body is excellent, but, the shutter speed selection ring is quite stiff. The speeds can be selected, it feels like drying grease is in the way. I would normally "have a go", but this camera is far too nice to spoil by blundering in there without a clue.
I read the post nearby where bcs89 was having a go, the advice given goes part way into the lens. Could it be a DIY job? (don't worry, I am an owner of a few FSU RFs, so life with a screwdiriver and pliers is already a necessity)
How can this part of the lens assy be accessed?

David

 

[Kim Coxon]

There is some information on these here http://www.kyphoto.com/classics/konicaautos.html
The way in through the front is much like the Canonets.

Kim

 

[fidget]

Thanks Kim,
That doesn't look too painful, but also doesn't get to the speed selector ring. I wonder if I went that far and tried to douse the selector in lighter fluid? probably never work again? Perhaps it is easy to see how to dismantle the ring from the rest of the body after the front element is off? (Perhaps it's worth buying a practice camera as bcs89 did, very smart!)

 

[bcs89]

David - Did you get it figured out? You are right about the benefits of a "test" camera, unfortunately I just saw a S2 go for $125 (plus S&H!) on ebay the other day (I love my S2, but come on!) maybe that was a fluke, or fake bid... anyway good luck, and hope all works out.

Scott