M3 Flash Sync problem

[benno]

Hi guys,
Still having issues with my recently CLAd M3. Flash sync doesn't seem to be working properly

1. if I plug the PC cord into the port with the lightning bolt logo, the flash fires when I half press the shutter - i.e well before the shutter fires.

2. if I plug the PC cord into the bulb port, the flash doesn't sync properly - from 1/30th up, all I get is blank frames.

Does anyone know what's up with my camera?

Cheers,
Ben

 

[former member]

Sounds like the Flash Sync Contacts either need to be adjusted or replaced. There is a separate adjustment for the Sync under the bottom cover plate. If the contacts cannot be adjusted properly, they probably need to be replaced.

 

[benno]

Sounds like the Flash Sync Contacts either need to be adjusted or replaced. There is a separate adjustment for the Sync under the bottom cover plate. If the contacts cannot be adjusted properly, they probably need to be replaced.

Thanks Brian, do you mean under the plate in the following pictures?

Could you give me a little more info? I can't seem to find much on Google.

Thanks! (RFF really is a fountain of knowledge!)

 

[former member]

Yes, they are in there somewhere!

Check Kim Coxons hme-page for Leica Repair manuals.

http://pentax-manuals.com/repairs.htm

The M2 should be close-enough.

 

[benno]

Thanks Brian, Kim's page is a great resource. I found the adjustment screw, just have to figure out a way of testing the adjustment process.

Thanks again!

 

[benno]

No matter how I adjust it, the problem remains. Occasionally if I adjust it to just the right position, the first press on the shutter seems to fire the flash at the right moment, but subsequent firing is out of sync.

Bugger.