First 35mm SLR

iamchrisphoto

iamchrisphoto

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Chris Scuffins
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Hi,

I have my very first 35mm SLR being delivered today, a very reasonably priced OM2n and Zuiko 50mm f1.4.

I just wondered what things I should be looking for or checking when I get it. Also, are there any specific things I need to do in order clean it and get it working well?

I have heard about replacing seals? Is this easy to do?

Sorry for all the questions, just want to make sure I get off to a good start with a camera thats 15 years older than I am!

Thanks!
 
Open the film door and look along the egdes of the actual door, if they appear to have a sticky black mess on them then you need new light seals for sure. If not then thy;re porbbaly ok for a little longer. If there's lots of black specks in the viewfinder then same ges for the mirror damper. Apart from that ther OM2 is about as reliable ss an SLR gets.
 
If you touch the seals lightly, it should also give you a good idea. Ideally they should be a bit springy and not sticky to the tips. A standard rocket blower of all the areas would also be good, to ensure that no dust interferes with your film. Other then that, just ensure that the shutter speeds are all functioning at approximately correct speed (obviously this only really applies to those which are long enough to discern). I don't know much about the OM series but I think the OM2 has an electronically controlled shutter, so it's likely to still be reliable in that respect.

As Alan implied, you don't hear much about big mechanical problems with the OMx series so I reckon you'll be okay. Enjoy!
 
You can also check the door seals by feeling the door as it closes, there should be a little resistance just before the catch engages as the seals are compressed (mentioned above by freecom2) by the action of the door meeting the body.
It doesn't guarantee a light proof seal all the way round but gives an indication of the condition of the seal generally, any bits damaged or missing will have to be identified by inspection or test roll..:)
 
Thanks for all the help guys.

Turns out this beauty is in great condition. A set of fresh batteries and and quick go over with the rocket blower and it looks brand new.

Best £60 I've spent on photography gear in a long time!
 
£60, that's a free body, the 50mm f1.4 goes for a bit more than that on it's own.
 
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