Canon A-1 Shutter action

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KayJay

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It's been a while since I used my A1 so i decided to run some film through it today. I noticed that when I fire the shutter the viewfinder goes black and doesn't open again until I advance the film. Is this normal? It sounds like a dumb question to ask but I've been using TLR cameras recently and completely forgotten what's normal and what isn't.

Hope someone can put my mind to rest.

Thanks.
 
No, it's not normal, the mirror should do an instant return. Only on the very early SLRs like my Contaflex is it required to advance the film in order to get the mirror down again. Perhaps the foam near the focus screen's edge has gone gooey and is making the mirror stick in the up position? See what happens if you take a shot with no lens mounted.
 
Thanks Nick. Will give it a shot and see what happens.
 
Nick, I took out my film and fired the shutter a few times and after 2 or 3 shots the viewfinder seems to be working again. I think I'm not giving it enough use and it sticks. Might need a clean but I fear that may cost more than the camera did. Will keep an eye on it. Thanks again for your advice.
 
Agree with NickT. Sounds like the seal near the focus screen needs replacing. Recently replaced mine having found my A1 hiding in the loft. Not too difficult if you have steady hands and don't rush.

Replacement seals were sourced from Jon Goodman - perfect fit, ridiculously cheap and delivered in about a week (from the States). I have Jon's contact details if you're interested. He's a real gent and a pleasure to do business with.
 
Adrian. Thanks for the information. I'd really appreciate it if you could send me his details. I don't mind having a go myself. I quite like getting to know the mechanics inside my cameras.
 
I'm sure he wouldn't mind me sharing it (I found it via Google) - JGood21967@aol.com

I paid $10.05 (inc. postage) - paid via PayPal - Camera is now as good as new.

You'll get all the tools and instructions included - I'm pretty sure Jon will provide whatever extra help you may require (unlikely given the info provided).

Good luck and let me know how you get on.
 
Kayjay, some years ago I had a Canon AE-1 (model from the same period as the A-1) and the mirror failing to return and only coming down when I woundon was an indication that I needed to change the battery. It did eat batteries. Might be another thing to look at.

I also really recommend Jon Goodman and his seal kits, worth doing on an old camera. He is a gentleman and a very reliable source of seals and information on replacing them. I was put in touch with him by some one on this group and I have now replaced the seals on a several cameras with his advice and materials.
 
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I agree with all the other posters who recommend Jon Goodman's seals. I've changed the seals on a couple of A1s and it really is quite easy. Here's a link to a guide on how to do Canon A series seals with his kits.http://www.kyphoto.com/classics/seal/Canon_AE1.pdf

He used to do generic (cut your own pieces) kits, now he sells them pre-cut for specific models I believe.
 
Used my A1 yesterday, last year (erm or was it this year time flies by) it originally sounded wheezy because of the dry mirror damper, but a few drops of oil fixed that and now has a lovely shutter noise.
 
Awesome. The previous owner of my A1 (also a member here) had the shutter squeak issue fixed and it does sound lovely. Will send an email off to Jon today. I actually think I've dealt with him in the past, he may have sent me seals for my Olympus Trips and my Olympus XA.
 
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