Mamiya TLR Lenses: Slow and Sticking Shutter Release
Originally posted on Instagram. Notes from the repair bench, kept here as a searchable archive. View the original on Instagram
The Mamiya TLR and Press lenses often have an issue of slow/sticking shutter release. This is caused by several parts that need to be removed and cleaned and then very lightly lubricated.
Photo one shows two lenses that came into the shop in very interesting original cases. A bit rare to find lenses in this condition as many were used professionally and show hard use. But, even though these lenses were not used much, they suffer the affects of dried lubrication. As an absolute minimum on a minor service, the parts shown in photo two are removed for cleaning/lubrication: slow speeds escapement, cocking ring, main cam, pinion and main spring. In some cases, other parts need to be removed.
The key to doing shutter work is to have good light and magnification.
Finally, the video shows the symptom of this sticking shutter issue. You can see the delay from shutter release to finally firing of the shutter mechanism.
