M6 shutter problem ??

[pvenables]

Hello everyone

Took this picture in Naples a few weeks ago on Kodak BW400 c-41 B+W film.

It was an extremely sunny day. Exposure was about f11 at 1/1000s.

I've had a problem with my M6 before that some shots in sunny weather come out as being completely underexposed, or more exposed on the rhs of the frame than the left, like the example below. Given that the problem seems to happen most frequently when the weather is extremely sunny, and that I use 1/1000 rarely [I normally shoot 100ASA film], I think there's something wrong with my top speed.

Was only using this film because my Deta 100 ran out.

If anyone's had this problem with their M6 and can offer any suggestion as to how to solve it, I'd like to hear it. Thank you.

Paul

 

[Kim Coxon]

This looks symptomatic of a shutter brake problem. The best cure is to get the camera serviced.

Kim

 

[Magus]

Post deleted by posters request

 

[Ken Ford]

Time for a trip to the Leica Day Spa! Like they said, probably just an adjustment/maintenance issue.

 

[pvenables]

Thank guys.

Can't afford service from CRR or similar at present so will just have to use slower film for the time being 😉

Irony is that my M2, fast approaching its 50th birthday, has never given me problems of any sort...

Paul

 

[Magus]

Post deleted by posters request

 

[kinoglass]

The two curtains are travelling at different speeds, the closing curtain is catching with the first and bouncing back after slamming it. Alternatively the first curtain is too fast . It may be noticeable at lower speed as well. If you are in the United states I will be glad to give you a decent estimate to overhaul your camera shutter.

 

[JNewell]

I've had my M3 do this. It's not a big deal, but it affected every speed from something like 1/10 up, IIRC (was quite a few years ago).

 

[Xmas]

While you are watching sex in the city or whatever shoot off >1000 blank frames of the four bimbos, oops sorry girls.

If this does not work on the next film then save up the cash, or read the how to strip a M sites.

Noel

 

[Didier]

I bought my M6 very cheap ($200) but it had a clearly described shutter damage. Pictures looked like yours. Had the shutter replaced and the total $$ was still much less than buying an used one in well working order.
Didier

 

[OldNick]

It happens to Barnack Leicas as well. I have a Leica IIIa that I bought in 1952, and I noticed the problem at both 1/500 (slightly) and 1/1000 ( more pronounced). It hasn't changed in more than 50 years. I plan to mention it and send in a snapshot showing the problem when I finally get around to its first CLA.

Jim N.