Need help with M4 - focus trouble with Screw Mount Lens

[Pirate]

Just got an M4. I have a Screw Mount lens I want to use (for now) with the proper adapter to M-mount.

It won't go to Infinity Focus. The Image just won't come together when the lens is all the way out to Infinity.

Also, the Image is off just a bit Vertically, even if the Split Image is together.

Can someone tell me what's going on? Any help?

Thanks,
Chris

 

[SimonSawSunlight]

have you tried another lens? if the rangefinder is off vertically, I would say it's the body not the lens 😉

 

[johannielscom]

What lens are you using? Is there another lens for you to mount on the camera and if so, does that one line images up as it should?

 

[nobbylon]

Chris,
I take it the lens focus works at infinity with other cameras? If so, with the lens attached to your M4, open the back and set shutter to B. Trip the shutter and hold open so that you can see the focus cam against the brass ramp on the lens. Make sure it is aligned and stays contacted all the way through focus range. If not then the arm needs bending very carefully so that it does. Let us know and if necessary I will send you some pics. There is actually a slot in the focus cam arm for this purpose. Let us know,
regards john

 

[Pirate]

No other lens at this time. I'm waiting for a new Voigtlander to get here. The one I have is a Canon 50mm 1.4 for my Canon III Screw mount - the copy of the Leica III Screw mount body.

The M4 was (supposedly) checked at the shop before I bought it and they said it was in working order. I have an appointment with Youxin but not until he returns from China sometime next month, for a CLA.

 

[nobbylon]

Deal with the infinity focus first and then do the vertical. It's easy via the chrome screw on the front of the top plate with a small slotted screwdriver. The turning of the inner adjustment screw is minimal to align so don't go turning it through 1/4 turns etc.

 

[nobbylon]

does it focus to infinity on the Canon body?

 

[johannielscom]

^^ first make sure the lens is into specs, before fixing the body!

 

[Pirate]

I just came back from vacation in Georgia and ran a few rolls through the Canon body with this lens and everything came out very impressive for a 1952 RF, so yes, it works on the other body.

I see the arm inside for the focus adjustment but I'll learn a little more before I try to move that. I need to understand it, and that will take a few minutes. I'm good with this kind of stuff so no problem tackling it. First, I think it might be best to wait a week for the Voigtlander to come in and check it against that, then try the adjustments?? Ya think?

Thanks for all the help, I really love learning this stuff and I'm always open for more comments.

 

[Pirate]

Oh, and the Roller stays in contact with the lens all the way through the focus range - coming to the stop block as the lens hits Infinity.

 

[nobbylon]

ok sounds like either a/ the lens is slightly out or b/ infinity focus is off on the body. How much does it not line up by? Remember at infinity there is great depth of field so in pics you prob won't see it! I'd wait for the new lens and check before you start messing as adjusting the infinity also throws off 1m. Adjustment for infinity is best done with a screw driver bent into shape so that the driver fits the slot perfectly. Dont use any pressure on the screw in the centre of the roller otherwise you run the risk of bending the arm

 

[Pirate]

Check this out - I found this link for adjustment - please tell me if it looks correct for what I need to do:

http://nemeng.com/leica/034b.shtml

 

[nobbylon]

yep thats the way to do it. Main thing is to get a driver that fits properly and use tiny movements to adjust.

 

[Pirate]

It's a good little bit out when trying to focus to Infinity. Very noticeable.

Looks like a simple adjustment though, but your right, I do want to wait till I get the new lens and double check this before I make any adjustments. At least I am confident that I can do it myself. I repair weapons for a living and have more than enough tools at my disposal.

 

[nobbylon]

Good luck, it is very easy to do, j
ps make sure the roller is turning ok on the body as i've seen atleast 2 that didnt.

 

[Pirate]

I also wonder if it could be the Adapter?

It's a Marumi, L-39 to M, 50/75. I know it's the right adapter, but maybe it's a cheap one and out of tolerance?

 

[Pirate]

The Roller spins.. not a free-spin and it does get a little stiff now and then. I wouldn't mind putting a spot of grease on there..... but I don't know what it takes (yet).

 

[Pirate]

I'm looking for an M-Repair Manual. I'm sure we've covered those here in the Forums... Anyone got a quick link to a thread or a Manual?

 

[payasam]

Nobbylon, my understanding is that if the 1M adjustment is correct, it stays correct and only the infinity adjustment (setting in cam follower roller) can drift. I have also always thought that the vertical alignment should be done before the horizontal.

 

[Pirate]

I found this .pdf file that helps explain a lot too:

http://www.pentax-manuals.com/manuals/service/leica basic repair.pdf