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

hth

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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? :rolleyes:

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
 
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.....
 
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.
 
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.
 
Two things :

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

2. Buy an RF645 :D
 
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

shutterflower said:
Two things :

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

2. Buy an RF645 :D
 
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.
 
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.
 
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 ?
 
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...:eek:

/Håkan
 
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....
 
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.
 
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