I have exactly the same problem. When I received it and
tried to use if for the first time it popped open
beautifully. The magnifier opened without any issues.
However, when I closed it I must have folded it the
wrong way and now it won't pop open and I have to turn
the camera upside down for it to pop. I must have
misaligned it and weakened the springing action.
Does anyone know of an alternative type of waist level
finder I can use for 500 C? Something like Mamiya RB's?
Thanks.