RF alignment on my Mamiya 7 is off again...

[hth]

The vertical alignment of the rangefinder on my M7ii is off again. It is the second time in 1.5 years. The manual states that it is a professional camera, I have started to doubt it.. 🙁

I know there are instructions around on how to fix it, but I am hesitant and think that might try the swedish repair service this time. The first time was fixed under warranty in the UK since I got it from Robert White, though I had to pay for shipping in one direction.

Anything more I should ask for when it is in for service? Like a CLA or that they glue that stupid adjustment screw? 🙄

None of my other RFs have ever had this problem, I also have two Leicas, a Hexar RF and a Bessa T.

Wish me luck..

/Håkan

 

[Simon Larbalestier]

A friend of mine had exactly the same problem two weeks ago when we were in Cambodia; one day it was fine, the next it was out and the camera hadn't been knocked in any way- so the camera repair shop I use in Bangkok, decided to glue the screw as it was a little loose and also said that it's not uncommon for this to happen.....

 

[Flyfisher Tom]

Hakan

good luck ... let us know how it turns out. Neither of my cameras have had misalignment problems.

If you discover anyway to adjust it yourself, keep us updated.

 

[ampguy]

Get a Fuji, finding Mamiya service might be tough.

 

[tomw]

I get this problem, too, but figure on a CLA every 1-2 years will fix it. I recommend http://www.precisioncameraworks.com/ since they include rangefinder adjusstment with the CLA price, which last year was about $130. Not going to help in Sweden, though, since they are in Chicago.

 

[sf]

Two things :

1. SOmetimes where your eye is in the viewfinder will give the illusion of vertical misalignment.

2. Buy an RF645 😀

 

[ampguy]

Get a Fuji.

 

[RObert Budding]

A drop of locktite on the threads should help. But get the lighter formulation if you ever want to move the screw again.

 

[hth]

Yes, the vertical alignment shifts a bit when I reposition the eye. However, after the first repair, there was a black plastic square thingie in the viewfinder with a hole in the middle. It was left there (probably by accident) and I now realize that this is for forcing one to position the eye properly for adjustment.

Well with this in place, alignment is off. I have sent it off for repair in Sweden, US$100, plus shipping, plus taxes and a fee taken by the local store. I just left it to them and did not have to bother with shipping it myself, expensive and convenient.

/Håkan

Two things :

1. SOmetimes where your eye is in the viewfinder will give the illusion of vertical misalignment.

2. Buy an RF645 😀

 

[mervynyan]

I also have the same issue with a used m7ii of vertical alignment, horizontally works fine, vertically off 1-2mm. i have sent it in for a complete cla. hope come back alright.

 

[Flyfisher Tom]

mervynyan,

May I ask where you sent it for CLA? just in case I need it (if ever, fingers crossed). thanks

 

[mervynyan]

Bob Watkins at Precision Camera Wroks. He seems to be very responsive. Actually I phoned Mamiya in New York but couldn't get a definitive answer what should be done. Having said that, my pictures looked fine since most of them were focused at infinite.

 

[Josburke]

Mamiya 7/7II RF adjustment

Mamiya 7/7II RF adjustment

I bought my Mamiya 7II about 6 months ago off the big auction sight---I'm typically a Hassy user as well as RolleiFlex TLR's--so there's my interest in MF but the handling is so much easier handheld over either the Hassy or RolleiFlex. After the first roll I shot knew I had a RF adjustment issue---I did a little online searching and performed the task myself--easy enough and I used the lighter LocTite to re-lock the adjustment and I do occasioally recheck at infinity. The results----those Mamiya 7 optics are first rate----I'm just astounded at the results and in a handholdable camera--I love it BUT I now tend to keep an eye on the adjustment. But I feel good about my ability to adjust it myself!!!
BTW--I was shocked at just how much adjusting I had to do----vertical only as well !! I now have an M5 Leica that was bought with a known RF adjust issue---should I try that one myself or send it for a PRO CLA ?

 

[hth]

I picked my M7ii up from the shop again, paid slightly less than $200 including everything extra (shipping/shop fee and 25% tax). Checked alignment and it is spot on! Seems like I have 6 month of warranty on the job too.

They had not replaced the cover for the adjustment though, there is a tiny "hole" in it (maybe it makes it easier for a DIY in the future). We'll see how long it lasts this time...😱

/Håkan

 

[jano]

How do you pronounce your name? 🙂

 

[KM-25]

SOmetimes where your eye is in the viewfinder will give the illusion of vertical misalignment.

I just wanted to update and old post because in searching for an answer about my Mamiya 6, this is what I found.

The above in quotes can not be overstated....I thought I was going nuts until I read this. My camera is fine....

 

[buggz]

Hello, I just got a great Mamiya 7 II kit.
How do you know if the rangefinder is off?
Other than from inspecting the developed film?
Yes, I am a rangefinder neophyte, I have never used a rangefinder system before.