Focus Patch Vertical Alignment

anselwannab · 12-09-2004

Ok, day 4, problem 2. Enjoying the camera and putting a roll of film through to test it out. One thing is that the vertical alignment of the patch is off. I've found on the web that the vertical alignment is adjusted under the rangefinder window "bezel" on the front of the camera.

Mine is on there TIGHT. The eyepiece on the backside comes off pretty easy.

Is the vertical alignment under that front bezel?
Any suggestions on tools to use to get it off with-out scratching the top end?

Thanks again!

Do we have a list of websites with info on repairs and adjustments?

doubs43 · 12-09-2004

What kind of camera are you talking about?

IF the right-side finder window has a round bezel then the vertical is usually adjusted one of two ways. Turning the bezel itself might do it. If not, unscrew the bezel all the way and see if there isn't a double collar under it. You'll want to turn the INSIDE collar only. When turning or removing the bezel, be very careful not to booger it up.

I have a FED-3a and a FED-3b. One is one way and the other is adjusted the second way. Both look like new but I had to adjust the vertical alignment on both when I got them.

I hope this is some help.

Walker

pshinkaw · 12-10-2004

If you are having trouble getting the bezel off. DO NOT use pliers except as a last resort.

You can try the following after you have applied a small amount of denatured alcohol or Everclear under the bezel. The adjustments rings are frequently stuck in with shellac or some other glue-type substance to keep them in place. It bleeds out and gums up the bezel. Let is soak in for a little while to soften.

1. try a rubber jar opening pad, one of those thin rubber sheets with waffle patterns. or

2. make a wrench from a single piece of thin (1/8 or 3/32 plywood (obtainable at a hobbyshop, they are used for making doll houses) Make a V-cut in the wood and wedge the bezel inside of the "V". That shoud increase your leverage. or

3. make a wrench from a piece of hardwood by drilling a shallow hole into the wood as deep as the bezel, but of slightly less diameter. Then take a small chisel or knife and make serrations in the rim of the hole to grip the bezel.

The bezel is brass plated with chrome. It is very easy to scar it up.

-Paul

RML · 12-10-2004

Paul has very good advice! You'll have to make a little wrench like he suggests. Otherwise you won't be able to get that bezel off. I didn't know when I tried to readjust my Fed2 and almost destroyed the brass using pliers. Fortuntely, I gave up quickly and posted a similar question on Photo.net (IIRC), where someone gave the same advice.

anselwannab · 12-10-2004

Thanks guys! Is it a left or right loosening thread. I thought I saw somewhere that some bezel (fed2?) loosened by turing right.

Thanks,
Mark

Laika · 12-10-2004

Anselwannab,
In the FED2 DIY thread I posted (sticky post in this forum) it shows a bit on what you’re trying to do also at the end of it how to align the RF. A couple of drops of Isopropyl alcohol should help free things up if you have a tight one.

http://www.rangefinderforum.com/foru...=&threadid=895

BTW: Paul advice is on the money, and I agree pliers are a last resort and even then they should have rubber or heat shrink on the jaws.