Cleaning Reflex Mirror of the Zeiss Ikon Contaflex IV

[zamri]

Hi, I have this Zeiss Ikon Contaflex IV. Any of you have experience with this camera. The reflex mirror is dirty and need some cleaning. The problems is that I was figuring it out how I can access to the mirror.

Need some advise.

Thanks

[Brian]

Are you sure that the mirror is dirty- and that it is not the prism de-silvering?

I've had a couple of Retina Reflex cameras with that problem. I replaced the prism to solve it.

On the Contaflex: I suspect a major teardown, take off the top plate and the prism to get to the mirror. Or, the whole lens barrel has to come off. This is not something that I would try without a manual and a parts camera to practice on.

[zamri]

Are you sure that the mirror is dirty- and that it is not the prism de-silvering?

I've had a couple of Retina Reflex cameras with that problem. I replaced the prism to solve it.

On the Contaflex: I suspect a major teardown, take off the top plate and the prism to get to the mirror. Or, the whole lens barrel has to come off. This is not something that I would try without a manual and a parts camera to practice on.

Look like this is a though camera. I only have a user manual. Not very sure, I suspect the prism as well is also dirty. That why I wanted to take off the top plate but don't dare to do it on my own without the repair manual. Try to sent for cleaning at local service camera shop, and the bad news they don't dare to do the service and it will be expensive.

[Brian]

I understand that- the Contaflex is complicated, as is the Retina and other leaflet shutter cameras.

It will cost you much less to replace it with one rather than having it repaired. Look in the camera forums, or from a reliable used seller. These cameras run $50~$80 in working condition.

[zamri]

Thanks Brian, The cam still workable just that it a bit distracting when look into the view finder. By the way, will try to make use of it rather than let it idling in the cabinet. Will try to post some pics from this cam after completed the test roll.

[monopix]

I'm a bit late into this but, if you're still interested in doing this, I have a pdf of the Contaflex IV service manual (also covers 1-III). Pm me with an email address if you want a copy. It's about 20Mb in size.

Also, these cameras are not as bad to work on as people make out. They have a reputation and so many people won't even touch them. I have a Super that I stripped down to a bare metal chassis and rebuilt it and, if I can do it, any decent repair man should be able to.

The best way into the mirror is to remove the lens assembly by removing the screws from inside the body that hold it on.

[Brian]

I am interested, just sent you an Email.