Operations carried out
Cameras and lenses
Leica M6 - Defective frames
This M6 was still in good condition, despite some signs of wear and impact marks.
Its main problem was that the frame modification with optics or the selection lever no longer worked.
This is a problem that can usually be solved simply by cleaning a few adjustment parts.
After dismantling the bonnet, several problems became apparent.
Firstly, the tiny frame return spring was missing.
Secondly, the roller return spring was about to fail.
Finally, after dismantling the crank, washers and fastener, the internal set screw was not correctly positioned, which can cause the bonnet to warp.
Disassembly and cleaning of the adjustment parts did not bring any improvement.
Removing the frame block on the M6 requires three connections to be unsoldered from the small ribbon that links the viewfinder display to the main circuit.
This is a delicate operation, as the ribbon is thin and fragile.
To be comfortable, you need to remove the screw from the flash shoe support and push it backwards.
A fine soldering iron, a braid and a little flux are used to absorb most of the solder and to remove the cable without difficulty.
Two top screws release the block from the frames. All you have to do is remove the block and the tablecloth from the rangefinder.
I had the derisory hope that the little spring might be stuck somewhere, but no, it had well and truly disappeared…
After dismantling, the mirror and tablecloth have to be removed, which are held in place by a small screw and a position pin.
There is a small lever that moves the frames, which was a little firm. In principle, the frames should move without resistance.
Dismantling the frame assembly is extremely delicate, as the parts are very thin.
All the parts were cleaned with isopropyl alcohol.
Reassembly is of course the reverse of disassembly, respecting the original position.
At this stage, the movement of the frames by the action of the lever is once again fluid.
And what about the missing spring?
This spring is of a rare finesse?
As I didn’t have a replacement part, I was thinking of having it rebuilt.
Where can I find such a fine spring? The thinnest I know of are in Copal type shutters, even those are thicker…
I therefore adopted an alternative solution, by giving a little more force to the return spring located next to the viewfinder. The result is excellent.
In the end, this micro-spring may not be totally necessary…
You need to check the frames and make any necessary adjustments. Each selection must display the corresponding frames, without overflowing the other formats.
The next step consists of re-soldering the cable and cleaning the tracks and the gear selector brushes.
A good cleaning of the external parts often makes it possible to give a little freshness to the various painted engravings.
Of course, a dusting of the darkroom was necessary.
Reassembly needs to be done correctly, especially what I pointed out about securing the cover under the crank.
LEICA the legendary brand
I decline all responsibility if you damage your toys !!! There are professionals to do this work !