OM-2 Meter Problem

Hi all

 

I have a OM-2 (not S or N and s/n 459267) with a sticky meter. The

needle stays at the bottom of the scale and doesn't move. The problem

has happened in the past and a processor reset (switch to manual,

lens to B and toggle between manual and auto) has cleared it (perhaps

coincidentally). This time it stays stuck.

 

Any advice would be very much appreciated. If there isn't a DIY

solution, can anyone suggest a good service technician in the UK who

won't charge an absolute arm and leg? When I enquired at a camera

shop the quote was more than I can buy another secondhand body for,

and they couldn't promise a repair because spares are apparently

unavailable! Given the intermittant nature of this fault I guess the

camera probably needs a good service and clean rather than spares?

 

I would like to keep this actual body working if possible. It belongs

to my wife who was given it by her father and so has sentimental

value. Both of us love the OM-2 and I have used OMs both for work and

pleasure for donkey's years. Plus we have quite a large investment in

lenses and, when it works, it takes superb shots.

 

Many thanks in advance for your help

 

Paul

Hi Paul,

<p>

I've never encountered your problem before myself (so I probably don't know what I'm talking about), but maybe you could try the following:<br>

1. Try shining a light (not too bright) at the camera, with <i>and</i> without a lens on it, on both Auto <i>and</i> Manual modes - if it's a problem of friction with the needle itself, you may unstick it; you could set the shutter speed dial to 1 sec when on Manual, this would tend to push the needle up perhaps?<br>

2. Try removing and then replacing the focussing screen - the needle lies very close to the screen, and may be rubbing on it.

<p>

Other than this, I really couldn't say. I'd be tempted to gently shake the camera if it were mine, but maybe I shouldn't recommend that to you!

Since it forms part of a history of needle misbehaviour, I'd look for a professional CLA. Don't know in the U.K. but where I live that may cost about usd 60; perhaps best advice could be to send it to John Hermanson at www.zuiko.com.

Mine has done all kind of abnormal movements but still alive !!

 

Good luck

 

Fernando

Have it serviced professionally. There isn't much a DIYer can do about a sticky needle type meter and the supply of replacements is dwindling. Muck it up and you may be stuck with a camera good only for salvage.