Yashica TL Electro Manual Camera

<p>Hello,<br>

I have a quick troubleshooting question regarding my Yashica TL Electro fully manual camera. It is an old camera (obviously), and I have had it cleaned multiple times. However, the shutter sticks whenever the camera is outside in the colder weather. Because of this, I either have frames in my roll fully exposed to light (because the shutter remains open), or I can frames that are clear because they have not be exposed to light (shutter remains closed). I am really trying to venture out and take pictures of nature, but I can't because of this issue. Is there anything I can do to resolve this? <br>

Thank you!</p>

<p>Sounds like someone has "oiled" the shutter if this happens mostly in cold weather.</p>

<p>If you can remove the oil from inside the shutter and the various mechanisms it might work.</p>

<p>It's almost never a "good idea" to put oil into a camera. </p>

<p>I agree. It has to be oil on the shutter. Whoever cleaned it before, didn't dismantle the shutter and polish the blades. They cannot be lubricated with any form of liquid.<br>

Have the shutter 100% dismantled and cleaned and your camera will be good to go for 20 more years.<br>

An old trick by some unscrupulous camera mechanics was to spray a solvent on the blades, which allowed the shutter to function for a few months.</p>

<p> </p>

<p>It might be possible to have the camera "winterized" by a reputable repair shop. Back when digital was an expensive curiousity, pros who frequented extreme cold environments would have their film cameras winterized for better reliability in the cold. Might be expensive, though, so you might not want this option unless you will use the camera primarily in the cold.</p>

<p>Had one of these about 30 years ago and it was a very nice camera. But I paid about $50 used for it even then. So paying for any kind of service at all is a non-starter. Unless the camera has sentimental value, go to the auction site or used camera store of your choice and buy another one. I just did a quick search and they run anywhere from $20 to $45 including lens. Keep the current one for warm weather and indoors.</p>

<p>For what it's worth ... many Yashica Yashinon DS 50mm 1.9 lenses up on eBay for typically $30. You didn't mention your focal length. Of course, one cannot be sure of their functionality altho they are listed as in great condition.</p>

<p>Might be an affordable option to a CLA.</p>

<p>Just my 2 cents.</p>

<p>Jim</p>

<p>Thank you all for your input! I am going to see if I can get it cleaned professionally (again), and hopefully it helps. Also, the warmer weather is coming!<br>

Thanks again!<br>

Becky</p>