Rollei Shutter Speed Slowdown

CLAdictic

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Joined
Jun 21, 2020
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125
I have a Rolleiflex F 3.5 dated around 1961. I have had it for a number of years and whenever I take it out, it produces excellent images. The slow speeds, 1, 1/2, 1/4 are slowing down. The fast speeds, 1/8 and up are fine. I read some years ago that it is common for the slower speeds to stick. The easiest remedy is to exercise the speeds. Wind without film and run the shutter speed dial up and down. I do that and it keeps the faster speeds consistent. But this doesn't help in "freeing" up the slow. My meter is reliable, when I compare it to a handheld. Does anybody know a reliable repair source for service?
 
I have good service from ProCamera in Charlottesville, VA. I just got my 3.5F back from them where they did a complete disassembly and CLA of all systems. They have done some other Rolleis for me where they addressed sluggish shutters and other matters that didn’t require a complete overhaul.

Their rates are reasonable, and most recent turnaround was about 4 weeks in their shop.
 
I have a few Rolleis and haven’t used them for a long time. The slow speeds at least 1s and 2s seem slow to me and sometimes stick. When I exercise it a dozen times it comes back to life. It may also be oil on the blades. I send my cameras to Fleenor if needed.
 
I had trashed Rolleicord for low price. Was able to fluid clean the shutter. It is not any different from this shutter types. Camping fuel baths while working out shutter to flush all gunk, let it dry completely and just very little of watch oil.
 
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