Ricoh Diacord L shutter

[Phoenix Phil]

Can anyone describe (or may even have some pictures) on how to access the Ricoh Diacord L shutter? My Ricoh has an inconsistent shutter and I can see a little oil on the blades.

Thanks
Phil

 

[Al Kaplan]

Most likely you can unscrew the front an rear lens cells from the shutter. Don't take the cells themselves apart! Lighter fluid, cotton swabs (Q-Tips), and patience over a few days time should solve the problem. Squeeze a bit of the lighter fluid on the blades, use the shutter over and over for a few minutes while trying different shutter speed. Mop up the mess with the swabs. The shutter should get more consistant and end up pretty much oil free. Let it dry out over night and put the lens cell back in the shutter. It shold be workin OK at that point.

 

[Phoenix Phil]

Hi Al,

I finally found time and worked up the confidence to open up the camera. It was actually easier than I had imagined. I have worked on a couple Kodak shutters previously and this one was similar. After removing all the lenses, I ended flooding the shutter a few times and working the shutter while flooded. I didn't pull the shutter out. Then I put just a bit of lubrication on the shutter speed selector (correct term?) since that was binding just a bit. The speeds seem to work consistently now. Now I just have to check to make sure that the lenses are back in place correctly. Thanks for your suggestion. Regards, Phil.

 

[Al Kaplan]

It's about impossible to put those lens cells in wrong. Sort of like replacing a light bulb! The worst that could have happened is that you'd still have to "get it repaired"...LOL