Leitz Wetzlar VIOOH Viewfinder Repair

[Mark A. Fisher]

I just picked up a VIOOH viewfinder, but no matter what I do with it I can see nothing in any of the settings. Is there a simple fix to get this operational again, or would I be better off finding one that functions properly?

Thanks,

Mark

 

[colyn]

If you can't see anything, most likely the prism elements have separated. If you want to see go to my site at http://www.colynsfotografs.com/viooh.html to see if it is repairable..

 

[Mark A. Fisher]

Thanks Colyn!

What a terrific "How To"! I will gather up all the proper tools and give this a go in the next day or two, as time allows. I only paid 7 dollars for it, so if I can fix it I got a terrific deal, and if it isn't then I didn't wreck my budget either.

Mark

 

[farlymac]

On mine, the final segment separated from the rest of the prisms, and I thought I would have to get some UV cement to fix it. But instead, I used some Weldbond on the side of the segment, instead of between the segments, and glued it to the body interior in line with the other prisms. So far, it's holding good.

PF

 

[Mark A. Fisher]

Excellent! I haven't had a chance to take it to the workbench yet, but I'm hoping to do so over the weekend. Thanks for the tip!

Mark

 

[peterm1]

This finder is Soooooooooooo easy to disassemble and even more important to reassemble - there is really only one way to do it so opporunities to stuff it up are limited. I have disassembled a couple of them for cleaning.

 

[Mark A. Fisher]

I had some time to take it apart this afternoon, and sure enough, the elements had separated, but I think the previous owner had already had the same issue and trie to repair it unsuccessfully. There is glue, or something, on most of the prism surfaces, so I'm going to have to find a solvent or some harmless goo remover to clean the surfaces. Also, at least one of the prisms seems to have been broken - one edge is ragged. I didn't find any glass shards inside the housing, which is what makes me think this has already been monkeyed with before. But you were all correct - this bugger is easy to disassemble!

I'll let you know how it goes...

Mark

 

[colyn]

Use a single edge razor blade to clean off the old glue on the mating surface only then get some glass glue made by Locktite from Home Depot. Apply to the mating surfaces. Using a solvent may remove the black paint and silvering rendering the prism useless..

 

[Mark A. Fisher]

Thanks Colyn,

Home Depot is only 2 miles down the road; I'll swing by there today or tomorrow. As far as the broken glass parts, I guess I'll just wait to see until I get it all reassembled whether there are any ill effects.

Thanks for your help, your knowledge, and your expertise!

Mark