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POSTI-Tuomo
02-15-2007, 04:25
Well, a Zorki 4 of course! What a beautiful baby!

http://www.kolumbus.fi/~w427831/kuvat/imagedump/zorki4.jpg (http://www.kolumbus.fi/%7Ew427831/kuvat/imagedump/zorki4.jpg)

It is mechanically completely sound. All speeds work, even the slow ones (what a terrifying noise it makes when set to slow speeds :D). The RF/VF is clean, RF patch is bright, dioptrical correction works nicely. Self-timer works as it should. Came with a very clean and sound leather case and a plastic takeup spool.

The Industar-50's aperture blades are free of oil, lens has no visible scratches but it's a bit dirty. Nothing that proper cleaning couldn't remove. Focusing is silk smooth, but aperture ring needs some working (solidified grease, you can feel it). Any info on Ind-50 servicing is welcome!

The shutter has no holes, though it is a bit noisy. Actually, it makes two kinds of sounds quite randomly: at times it makes a "clack", at other times a "swishck". Probably the metal curtain laths are to be blamed. Also, winding is on the stiff side although I suspect it is a feature of this camera. Some oil to the gears are in order.

After all, it is the T-34 of cameras :p. Such solid handling! Heavy weight is a plus in my shakey hands, keeps it more immobile during exposures.

Good value for $35, wouldn't you agree?

PS The RF needs some calibration, won't display the picture correctly at infinity. Is this done the same way as with a Zorki1? By a small screw underneath a larger one next to the VF window?

wolves3012
02-15-2007, 04:35
Very nice Posti - the engraved version too - $35 sounds like a bargain!

I think I know the shutter sound you refer to - it's caused by the tension rollers being in need of lubrication. If you look in the sticky "HOW TO - CLA ZORKI 4K" thread you'll see how to rectify it. A tiny drop of oil as described has totally eliminated this sound from my 4K. In fact, after the CLA, the whole camera is just a totally different animal.

I have to say that the Z4 is one of my favourite FSUs - it's competent enough for almost anything, yet simple and honest. Plus it's easy to pull apart if things were to go wrong! Enjoy!

POSTI-Tuomo
02-15-2007, 08:05
Hey, that CLA manual of yours is exhaustive, in many ways. Looks like I will be only doing parts concerning the shutter release mechanism... that part concerning the slow speeds looks a tad too scary. And never fix something that isn't broken, that's what I (try to) say (to myself)! I think I'll hone my repairing skills with the easier bits first!

But surely I shall take this beast apart and put it back together one fine day... :cool:

reagan
02-15-2007, 08:28
Congrats, Tuomo ~ indeed, it does feel like a "beast" compared to the Zorki.1, eh?

robin a
02-15-2007, 08:33
Hi,she's a looker.........Robin

Spyderman
02-15-2007, 08:49
My Z-4 was also too difficult to wind on, then I decided to adjust the tension of curtains and it helped a lot. Also lower tension on curtains will help the springs as well, and it will be quieter.

there is a sticky thread about it: http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=30343

and here is my story: http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=22330

wolves3012
02-16-2007, 05:39
Posti, the slow-speed mechanism isn't as bad as it looks. If you don't want to disassemble, you can probably lube it in situ; use a thin watch or clock oil on the points shown. Be sparing though, you need a very fine oiler or fine wire to carry the tiniest drop of oil.

I've done this in-situ on a FED 4 and it makes all the difference. At the age these cameras have reached, re-lubing this part is always worthwhile.