Ricohflex Dia L Self Timer Issue

Hello all,

 

I got a Ricohflex Dia L with SEIKOSHA MXL shutter, and it seems to be in very good condition. I can change shutter speed, aperture, open/close the cover and view finder, etc. I can cock and fire the shutter at various speeds too.

 

However, whenever I cock the lever, there is a noise which seems to be from the self timer. I have tried the following without any success.

 

1. Try switching between M-F-X modes.

2. Try to turn on the little self timer switch and off again. The switch seems to have no resistance and kind of move loosely. I think it may be the root cause.

 

Even after the shutter is fired, it will keep making the winding noise for about 2 mins and stop (coking lever will tick once).

 

You can see it in the video here.

 

 

Is there anything else I can try? If I keep using it (ignoring this self timer noise), will it damage the shutter?

 

Thanks in advance! Looking forward to hear some advice.

 

Regards,

 

Frank

I wouldn't try it in M mode as some shutters might be damaged by that, although I've never had anyone actually tell me. Most likely it just wouldn't operate in that mode. Several of my leaf shutter cameras advise that self timer cannot by used if shutter is set for M sync.

Thanks Mike. I will avoid switching to M from now on then. I am totally new to film and TLRs.

 

So of the two settings, should I use F or X? Or it doesn't matter? I didn't see much info in the manual other than that they are related to flash sync.

Keep the camera on "X" rating . . .Several of my folders & both Yashica Mats must be in X for the self timer to work. Bill

Thanks and noted Bill.

 

As for the issue with winding noise, I tried to put a few tiny drops of alcohol with a toothpick in to where the levers are, and that seems to fix it. However, I think the mechnical parts need a bit of clean and lube.

 

Any advice on properly and safely DIY is appreciated. :)