Leica M8 Rangefinder Alignment!!

Hey

 

Has anyone had real world experience in sorting out a misalignment of the Leica M8 rangefinder patch. My camera took a knock on holiday and the patch is out of alignment vertically by quite a bit! Whoops

I have found a tool on eBay to attempt this but have struggled to find anything in the forums where anyone has done this themselves.

The tool is expensive but the repair is most likely ludicrous for what is a relatively simple procedure (have seen some people saying they payed around 500 euros for the repair to be done by Leica who at this time are the only people who will do it as no one repair shop I've spoken with will touch it).

If anyone has undertaken this repair please send me in the right direction for any further info.

It would be most appreciated !!

as no one repair shop I've spoken with will touch it" Ben H.

That's odd. They're still serviceable, but with very limited parts availability.

 

Now:

1. Order the tool.
   
2. Remove the 'Leica' adhesive access hole 'DOT'. A couple of drops of naphtha (Lighter fluid) will soften up the adhesive. Spin the 'DOT' & fingernail it out. Don't use any tools etc. Very easy to slip !
   
3. The moving 2nd image mechanism will now be visible along with a spot of Loctite sealant. Carefully apply a drop of MEK to loosen the hold on the sliding eccentric.
   
4. Engage the tool into the hole and gently twist in either direction to 'slide' the unit vertical up/down depending on your viewfinder needs. Very sensitive and miniscule movement, so just a little bit of pressure is required.
   

Second image is more of the technician's view of this service procedure (We apply the solvent for softening of the Red Dot from the underside of the top-plate).

Notice how the tool engages, & the spot of Loctite, & the best angle for adjustment...

Edited November 24, 2017 by Gus Lazzari