CONTAX AX- spasmodic problem.

<p>I have not used my AX for over 1 year. It now seems to lock occasionally. When it locks, if I move the mode lever to Macro, then lightly press the shutter button, it frees it. I can then switch back to Manual/Single AF/or Cont. AF. and everything is perfect again in the viewfinder. The battery is OK, having tested it in another make of camera. I have been in touch with a man who worked as a camera technician with Contax here in the UK. He believes that non-use of the camera had caused this malfunction. He suggests moving the mode switch back and forth; and firing the shutter frequently, should bring the camera out of its "slumber". Everything works fine in Macro mode with no 'lock-up' It only locks occasionally when it SAF/or CAF. when using 'program'/TV/AV. When switching to Macro, and back to the other modes I can hear the film plane moving smoothly and correctly.<br>

There is nothing to suggest that it is 'mirror slip' causing this problem.<br>

Any suggestions and comments from AX users would be appreciated.<br>

Thanks.</p>

<p>Since the AX is composed of an internal & external body chassis, it requires the use of matching guide rails and rings. In order to insure high quality imaging of the Zeiss glass, this new system demanded a very tight tolerance. As a result the manufacture designed a ceramic coating to be applied to these two components. With this highly specialized technology, it required a special lubricant in order to prevent binding etc. with such a small gap/tolerance.</p>

<p>It's therefore possible to have <strong>debris</strong> or <strong>out-gassing</strong> from other internal systems in the complex AX, to have reduced the smoothness of the rail & ring action. The macro setting produces a long travel action that may currently 'barrel' through this initial <strong>contamination</strong>.</p>

<p><strong>Or</strong>, the USM motor may be affected in a similar fashion causing a 'flat spot' in its otherwise smooth & quite action.</p>

<p>Finally, a proper service will certainly remedy these issues.<br /> But at current pre-owned bargain pricing, it's better to seek out a 'mint' replacement of this wonderful AF camera...</p>

<p>Gus, Many thanks for your contribution. I follow what you have posted. You seem to have very good technical knowledge about the AX camera. The camera seems to be freeing day by day. The former Contax technician I contacted is of the opinion that lack of use has caused this.<br>

I will certainly consider a service of the AX. As regards buying a replacement - they are very rare nowadays. When the camera was first launched at £1,900 here in the UK, it was something I could not afford. Eventually bought mine (used) for about £350 and it was Mint-.<br>

Thanks again for your reply.</p>