ScottMac
Member
I was fondling my newly acquired IIIc yesterday,(my first Leica, by the way) and I noticed that the slow speeds seem to have a squeak, similar to the famous Canon AE-1 shutter squeak. I believe the speeds are accurate, but there is that squeak. Is this normal, or do I have a potential problem?
ZorkiKat
ЗоркийК&
In a properly working Leica, all that you should hear in the slow shutter modes is a fine whirr (like a cat purring softly 
). If it squeaks, it probably needs some cleaning and light oiling. Such can be expected of old cameras which have not seen action in many, many years. The mechanism can get dry in time. It also becomes sluggish from non-use.
If you're proficient in making minor repairs, you could probably inject a wee bit of lighter fluid into the slow speed mechanism (its hidden inside a "gear box" found on the floor of the shutter crate, under the lower baffle). You need not remove the cover of the box, all you need is to introduce some lighter fluid in it, using a syringe. The lighter fluid could soften the old lubricant and make it flow back to where it's needed. Exercise the mechanism by firing the shutter (at slow speed settings) so that the lighter fluid can flow into its innards and rouse the works. This often works if the mechanism isn't dirty. I've resurrected many long-unused cameras this way. If the camera works then reverts back, then a good CLA is the only solution.
Or you may have squeaking mouse stuck in there
Jay
). If it squeaks, it probably needs some cleaning and light oiling. Such can be expected of old cameras which have not seen action in many, many years. The mechanism can get dry in time. It also becomes sluggish from non-use. If you're proficient in making minor repairs, you could probably inject a wee bit of lighter fluid into the slow speed mechanism (its hidden inside a "gear box" found on the floor of the shutter crate, under the lower baffle). You need not remove the cover of the box, all you need is to introduce some lighter fluid in it, using a syringe. The lighter fluid could soften the old lubricant and make it flow back to where it's needed. Exercise the mechanism by firing the shutter (at slow speed settings) so that the lighter fluid can flow into its innards and rouse the works. This often works if the mechanism isn't dirty. I've resurrected many long-unused cameras this way. If the camera works then reverts back, then a good CLA is the only solution.
Or you may have squeaking mouse stuck in there
Jay
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ScottMac
Member
Thanks, I'll give it a shot, so to speak.
kabkos
Established
The squeak is due to the second curtain roller drum needs lubrication. If you apply too much oil though, you will mess up the curtain brake. Lubrication of the second curtain drum requires removing the shutter, removing the slowspeed/lens flange plate. Then you will be able to access the roller drum. Lubrication is much easier if you use a syringe with a fine needle so that you can apply the oil without getting any on the curtain material (oil will cause the rubber to swell and destroy the curtain). A better solution is to get the camera CLA'd.
ScottMac
Member
Who would you suggest for a CLA?
ScottMac
Member
I wonder, guys, do you think Canon made any IIIc's for Leica, cause this thing sure sounds like a squeaky old AE-1.
flashover
John K
if it squeakes offer it some Chesse
Stephanie Brim
Mental Experimental.
*facepalm*
John, that's a groaner if I've ever heard one...reminds me of my uncle and his notoriously bad jokes. He shoots with a Pentax K1000.
John, that's a groaner if I've ever heard one...reminds me of my uncle and his notoriously bad jokes. He shoots with a Pentax K1000.