Stuck framelines on M6

[crawdiddy]

My M6 classic is relatively new to me, and I just found the framelines are stuck in the 35-135 position.

I don't have any true M lenses, and only a single LTM-M adapter (yes, it's the 35-135 type-- Leitz). I've been using various LTM lenses, and the frameline preview lever was working previously. But now, engaging the lever yields no different framelines. Just the 35-135.

Does this sound familiar?

I've tried removing the LTM adapter, but even with the adapter off, the framelines are still stuck at 35-135. I'm reluctant to kick or toss the camera, as I am already fond of it, and it was expensive. Any ideas?

 

[lewis44]

I've had 2 M6's and over time, both had the same problem. It would either be sticking in the viewfinder area under the top plate or the mechanism that is connected to the frame line lever on the front of the camera.
With the lens off, you can see a little piece of metal just behind the lens mount (next to the lever side) that moves when a lens is mounted to bring up the frame lines.
In either case, probably no big deal. Just needs cleaning.
Check with Don Goldberg: dagcam@chorus.net or a local guy if you have one.

 

[gdi]

My M6 classic is relatively new to me, and I just found the framelines are stuck in the 35-135 position.

I don't have any true M lenses, and only a single LTM-M adapter (yes, it's the 35-135 type-- Leitz). I've been using various LTM lenses, and the frameline preview lever was working previously. But now, engaging the lever yields no different framelines. Just the 35-135.

Does this sound familiar?

I've tried removing the LTM adapter. No luck. I'm reluctant to kick or toss the camera, as I am already fond of it, and it was expensive. Any ideas?

The adapter should be easy to remove - it doesn't come off with the Lens, then try using the back of the rear cap (for the adapter) it should have three nubs which will engage the adapter detents for removal (press the release button also, of course. )

It is probably just a lubrication issue, but you may find the preview lever works with the adapter removed...

 

[crawdiddy]

I can get the adapter off. The framelines still don't change when moving the lever.

However, I can see a small metal tab moving on the right edge of the lens opening when I move the preview lever. Just no effect on the framelines.

I wonder if I should try some temperature extremes?

 

[gdi]

I can get the adapter off. The framelines still don't change when moving the lever.

However, I can see a small metal tab moving on the right edge of the lens opening when I move the preview lever. Just no effect on the framelines.

I wonder if I should try some temperature extremes?

I understand now - your last paragraph led me to believe it wouldn't come off !

My M3 was a bit sticky before a CLA - but the frames did change if the tab was moving. I can clearly see the frame line movement in the middle window on the M3, but it has a smooth window rather than the ridged one of an M6.

It may be worth a try to see if there is movement at all in the window before trying to heat it up (hairdryer on low, maybe?) But if everything moves except the frames, it seems something is disconnected (obviously).

 

[JNewell]

The problem, I was told by DAG, is that some techs either put lubricant on the mask assembly, or overlube in the vicinity of the mask and it gets some lube on it. Either way, it's supposed to be dry. I would be reluctant to try heat, which is at very best likely to make lubricants migrate from places they should be to places they shouldn't be...

 

[crawdiddy]

Good point about the heat. What about cold? (Ziploc the body, put it in the freezer for 15 minutes or so. I know that condensation wouldn't be a good idea, hence the vapor barrier.) Any thoughts?

 

[Roger Hicks]

Exercise. Wobble the lever to and fro. But the only proper cure is to have it mucked out. One of my M2s and my M4-P suffer from this if they rest unused for a few weeks. The M2 is nearly 50 years old, the MP over 25.

Cheers,

R.