New Bessa R2A - funny noise...

[Steve George]

Hi All.

My first post to the forum! Also posted on photo.net so apologies to those who read both...I may be being paranoid here but want to ask before I send the camera back 🙂

I've just got an R2A - Robert White in the UK, fantastic customer service and I can't recommend them highly enough for anyone in the UK.

So here's the issue: the focussing is silky smooth and silent if I turn my lens one way, but turning it the other way there is a slight - definitely audible but fairly quiet - grating noise coming from the focussing cam. I've removed the lens, re-inserted it etc to no avail.

It's 100% definitely not the lens - with it off the camera or on another camera body (Leica) it is silent and smooth.

Is this normal or is my focussing cam loose / unlubricated and hence this may cause long term damage?

Sorry if this is a bit of a novice question but I'm reluctant to waste their time if it's normal, and equally reluctant to find the camera broken in a few months time so would appreciate your feedback / comments.

 

[FrankS]

Bummer! What happens if you push on the focusing cam with your finger when the lens is removed?

 

[Steve George]

Hi Frank

Thanks for your answer. Reluctant to try it too much in case I damage anything further, but I take it this is non-standard in your experience?

 

[FrankS]

Of the RF cameras that I own, none make a noise while focusing.

 

[MCTuomey]

I second the advice to take it back to Robt White. My R2A is smooth while focusing in or out, and the other few RFs I've handled have also been smooth. Grittiness from the motion of the focusing cam cannot be good. Use that warranty and excellent RW service! Good luck.