Bronica ETRs have intermittent shutter misfires

Perhaps somebody out there can help me identify a problem with my

Bronica ETRs (that's ETR x 2, not ETRS x 1). They've both developed

intermittent shutter failure with their magazines on. When I test

them without mags they fire every time, with every lens. But with

mags fitted (and still in multi-exposure mode) the shutters fire

sometimes OK, sometimes with noticeable lag and sometimes not at

all. Strangely, the problem appears to have arisen simultaneously

with both cameras.

 

Has anyone else experienced this? Is the problem likely to be the

camera bodies (the spring driving the communicating pin between body

and mag becoming fatigued and not firing strongly enough)? Or are

the magazines the likely offenders (the mechanism behind that pin

developing too much resistance due to breakdown of lubricant or gunk

build-up)?

 

I believe that the lenses are "innocent" because the shutter

actuating levers (inside the bodies' lens-mounts) are sluggish over

the last few degrees of their travel (which is when the shutter would

be tripped if a lens was on) with a magazine fitted. However,

without mags the actuating levers seem strong and fast.

 

Any suggestions would be welcomed, please!

I would look again at the lens. Your situation sounds very much like a problem I have with the PG 100 lens for my GS-1. The pin in the lens mount that moves when the shutter is released is sluggish. None of my other lenses are affected by this at all. I understand I have to send the lens in for adjustment/cleaning (about $180 at Tamron). The other factor is that a sluggish lens or shutter release mechanism is a major drain on battery power.///Dick Baznik

A couple of years ago I had a similar problem with my original ETR (23 yrs old now) and 75mm lens; shutter misfired intermittently as yours did, but only with the 75mm; other lenses worked fine, but I don't remember removing film backs to check if they were related to problem. Perhaps your problem is different. My local repairman said he had seem this problem many times -- it was a small part (plate, I think) inside the lens; the plate has a 'notch' in it which can become worn and cause misfires; sometimes a little filing is all it takes (according to this repair shop) but I wanted more insurance and had him replace the part. So far, no problems. If it ever occurs again, I'll be sure to remove film backs as you describe.

good luck......