Problem with Contax IIIa

<p>After a lifetime of Leica ownership I have recently made a foray into Contax RF cameras. I now have a Contax IIa and Kiev 4A which have been serviced by my repair service of choice, Newton Ellis of Liverpool, who have done literally dozens of CLAs for me on Leica M, Leica LTM and Rolleiflex TLR cameras, among others, and view camera lenses. These two cameras are fine, so are a Contax IIIa and a further Kiev 4A, which worked fine as received and have not been serviced at all. The operating noise level of these cameras varies from whisper-quiet to a noticeable click, but I think vibration level is acceptable in all case. <br>

The problem is with a further Contax IIIa, which I sent for servicing but which came back with a perfectly operating shutter but also quite a kickback when the shutter is fired. This is so extreme that I can see the meter needle jumping when the shutter button is pressed (the problem is much less severe if the shutter is fired on the self-timer). I have sent the camera back once, it came back the same, which makes it seem as if it may defeat Newton Ellis for the first time ever. <br>

Simple question – has anyone else experienced this and found an answer? All info gratefully received!</p>

<p>I would leave well enough alone. My Contax and Kiev cameras also have noticeable clicks, which may be less than yours. As long as it works don't worry.</p>

<p>You could read this page, near the bottom he talks about shutter tension, this might answer your question.<br>

<a href="http://www.zeisscamera.com/services_overhaul-cIIa-shutter.shtml">http://www.zeisscamera.com/services_overhaul-cIIa-shutter.shtml</a></p>

 

<p>I think Norman is right. Most repairmen seem to tension this spring. I have had a Contax IIIa BD that probably had this treatment. I have no proof, admittedly, but now after about six years of use after having it sent to a repairs person for inspection (CLA, nothing was actually wrong, it just got terribly soaked in a storm once), and since then the shutter being noisier than before but also more accurate in the high speeds (500-1250), it has eventually torn up the silk shutter ribbon on one side. Again, I have no confirmation about this but now strongly believe that Henry Sherer is right here. The sound was that of a highly muffled air gun, if I should put it in words. Had been using it before for about ten years without any problem with the former owner claiming it had never been serviced - so maybe it was simply about time?<br /> Some people also mention that Colour Dials are more quiet, others doubt that, not sure.</p>