Nikon FM with big problem.

[wrs1145]

I got a Nikon FM the other day and I have a big problem. Everything woks, except the LEDs in the VF. Can they be replaced and if so how much does it cost?

Many thanks,
Bill

 

[Chriscrawfordphoto]

There are no new parts available. I would return the camera and buy one that just works. The cost of repair will be high, as a repairer will have to find donor parts from another old camera and the work of installing them requires a lot of disassembly.

 

[WoodallP]

Out of interest, what makes you think the LEDs themselves are faulty. I don’t know the FM but is there a battery test and does it test properly with a new battery?

 

[Sonnar Brian]

The FM does not have a battery test. LED's lighting up- indicate the meter is working. At this point, it would be impossible to know where the failure has occurred. It could be the metering board, not just the LED's. If it really is a near mint camera- worth the $78 to repair. I picked up a good user grade, all working FM for $50 a few years ago. I suspect prices are going up. The FM uses GaAS meter cells, not SPD. So- the donor must be another FM. The FM2 and FM2n went to SPD.

 

[splitimageview]

Assuming you checked the battery chamber for corrosion? Did you try new batteries? This is much more likely to be the culprit than LEDs or circuit boards, but anything is possible depending on how well the camera was cared for, or how much it wasn't. Good luck!

 

[Freakscene]

There are three likely points of failure:
- power to the meter i - the wires from the battery contacts often get dirty or lose proper attachment
- power to the meter ii - the blue wire in the prism housing (with FMs it is usually the blue one due to its placement)
- motherboard failure

Either send it back, or, if you have a friendly repairer who can look at it quickly, let the seller know and get the repairer to take a look and provide a repair estimate.

Good luck, and let us know how you go.

Marty

 

[Timmyjoe]

Also check the battery contacts. They can get loose, bent, weakened, and make sure you have fresh batteries. If all that checks out, see above.

Best,
-Tim

 

[ChrisPlatt]

I suppose it's safe to assume the film advance lever is in the stand-off position, revealing the red dot on top cover, which indicates exposure meter is on...

Chris

 

[wrs1145]

I'll try the DIY remedies. If that doesn't work, I'll take it to my guy in Seoul.

Many thanks,
Bill

 

[KeithH]

Did you buy it as 'fully working' ? If so, I'd return it or use it with a separate meter, or the 'sunny 16' rule'?