Should I update M3 firmware?

[Traut]

I just purchased a user DS M3. It will not be my primary M by any stretch.

Any idea how much $$ to modify it to single stroke? Is it a big deal? Should I even contemplate doing it?

 

[jaapv]

All that kind of thing might be possible, probably at serious $$$, but why should you want to do it?

 

[back alley]

use your camera for awhile and see if you like the ds or not first.

i have a buddy who prefers the ds over the ss, ya never know.

joe

 

[Todd.Hanz]

Theory is a DS will last longer due to less stress on parts, of course you're still winding it twice as much as a single stroke. I would leave it as is if it works.

Todd

 

[former member]

I would leave the film wind alone. I have both, and usually end up using two strokes to advance the SS version as well.

 

[SolaresLarrave]

I have cameras with DS and SS. I won't say which one's better because I don't think either is better, just different. But in this case, why bother with the change? I think it's part of the M3's charm to be a DS camera body, so I consider it a quaint touch.

Besides, it may cost you as much as a CLA to change the film advance. In that case, I'd rather overhaul the body. It'll stay with you some 50 years more.

 

[Traut]

Thanks for the input. It stays as is.

 

[JNewell]

My M3 DS was updated by Leitz back in the 70s during a major service visit. I had thought that I'd really notice being able to SS the advance, but in real life I almost always wind up doing something like 3/4 + 1/4, so it comes out about the same. If it ever needs it, fine, but I wouldn't spend the money on it now.

 

[Dan Chang]

SS is more reliable than DS, due to less wear and re-design, at least I saw more DS have winding gear problems, I have not seen SS have this kind of problem.

In real life, you want to shoot fast, you do not wind up 1/4 or so. only if you are a fondler. DS have more maitainance problem than late SS, for example the brake parts DS no long available, SS use the same M6 parts. SS is a better shooting tools due to fast winding action, but DS is very usable if in good condition.

 

[popeye]

Yeah, just make you don't shut it off during the flash...