<p>OK here is the latest: I just bought the used SB-25 "parts flash" -- it is non-functioning so *it* should be quite DEAD. Having to open it up was my greatest fear: The 4 screws on the bottom and 4 screws on the top is the *easy* part. The question now becomes how hard will it be to separate the front section which holds the battery door so I can safely remove it without breaking it?? Are there a whole bunch of clips etc, that hold the two halves together etc., or... do I luck out and the two halves separate without too much fuss?? Judging from the responses it seems the posters know where of they speak, and have taken one or more of these flashes apart before.<br>
While I'm at it I plan to simply keep the flash foot off (the SB-25) and put it aside and ready to go in case the one on the SB-26 should break. Later on I plan to order one or two more to have them on hand as back ups. One other small problem I should know in advance: Do I need to disconnect the flash foot on the SB-26 when it is time to separate the halves on the SB-26?? On the SB-26 (the one which will receive the donor door), do I have to remove all four top screws or just the two that hold the front side (which has the door in it) to the back side?? The less I have to take that flash apart the better.<br>
Depending upon how bad -- or good with luck -- my experience is getting the door OUT of the SB-25, I may take the flash and door to a camera shop and let *them* remove and replace the mangled one on the SB-26. I am hoping that swapping out the door will take no more than 15 -20 minutes tops, but I'm never *that* lucky.<br>
One last thing you might find "interesting" : When I went in search of obtaining just battery door I contacted NikonUSA, here is what Nikon wrote me:</p>
<p>"Thank you for contacting Nikon. We no longer make, sell, or service the SB-26 so we would not have the parts for it. If you have any more questions please contact us again.<br /><br />Thank you,<br /><br />Alaetra<br />Nikon Technical Support <br /><br /><br>
.... so when I switched to Plan B -- finding a "Parts Flash", I asked them the question that I posted here. Here is Nikon's response:<br>
<br />"Thank you for contacting Nikon. Unfortunately I cannot provide any steps or suggestions to help you replace your battery door cover. If a part is broken or needs to be replaced we always recommend that you send it into service.<br>
"You can locate a Nikon authorized camera repair shop in your area (if it is outside the warranty). Or you can send it in to our Nikon service center for repair.<br>
"To find the Nikon Authorized Repair Station in your area please click on the link below.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.nikonusa.com/Service-And-Support/Nikon-Authorized-Repair-List.page" target="_blank">http://www.nikonusa.com/Service-And-Support/Nikon-Authorized-Repair-List.page</a><br /><br />"For Nikon Service information, please see:<br /> <br />Title: How do I get my Nikon product serviced?<br />URL: <a href="http://support.nikonusa.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/336" target="_blank">http://support.nikonusa.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/336</a><br /> <br>
"The service approval will require you to pre-authorize the costs (for non-warranty repairs only) based on your input to the issue you are having with your Nikon Product. This is done to expedite the repair process. If the costs are different from what you initially pre-authorized, we will advise you.<br>
"There is no need to call in advance for any approval or authorization; simply send the product in for evaluation with no accessories, unless part of the issue, and a photocopy of the receipt. Once logged in, service will send you a confirmation. <br /> <br />"Sorry for the problems you have had with your Nikon product; Nikon Service strives to evaluate and repair all items as quickly as possible.<br /><br />Thank you<br /><br />Matipa<br />Nikon Tech Support</p>
<p>On one hand they tell me they do not service or have the parts because my SB-26 is too old and decrepit, on the other they imply that if I take my old and decrepit SB-26 into an authorized Nikon repair facility PRESTO!! they can locate the battery door cover.<br>
Well Plan "B" it is. The "Parts Flash" will arrive sometime next week, and the first step will be to REMOVE the door from the SB-25. I sure hope the two halves come apart easily...</p>