Manual SLR mirror stuck after every shutter release - Ricoh XR-7 in this case

florian-sdr · 03-25-2023, 10:10 AM

Hello!

I wanted to ask what I can do about an SLR, where the mirror stays in the top position after every shutter release?

The mirror get's stuck in the top position. When I manually forward the film forward winder and let it snap back, then the mirror comes down again. Only to stay in the top position after the next shutter release.
I recorded a video of the issue and uploaded it here:

You Tube

Is there anything I can do about that? Is it like in this video here (different camera, similar problem), where the whole shutter and mirror box assembly need an overhaul?

You Tube

Thank you very much for any suggestions.

Not a Number · 03-25-2023, 11:13 AM

Moved to the Troubleshooting and Beginner Help Section. The Repair and Warranty Service section is for feedback on services or inquires and recommendations where to seek repair service - did they do a good job? Was warranty coverage worth it?

One thing to check is if the mirror bumper foam has turned in to a sticky, gummy substance. Inspect the foam (touch it with something). Another clue is a residue line on the mirror leading edge where the mirror contacts the foam. If that is the case replacing the mirror bumper and the light seals may cure the problem. If the mirror bumper foam has deteriorated most likely the light seals need replacing as well. There are DIY light seal kits that should include the mirror bumper.

Otherwise the camera would benefit from a Cleaning, Lubricating and Adjustment (CLA). If you don't have the experience, skills and tools to DIY a repair service like Garry's Camera Repair may work on this model of camera. Check if there is a local camera repair shop that will work on it.

**pentaxus** · 03-26-2023, 09:08 PM

Gooey foam is the most common. For some cameras the adhesive on the double stick tape that was used to mount the mirror gets gooey and the mirror starts sliding down. When the mirror slides down it is farther forward when it moves up which causes the mirror to rub against a light baffle in the mirror box. In this case the mirror needs to be removed and re-glued.

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03-25-2023, 11:13 AM	#2
Not a Number Moderator Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: Venice, CA Posts: 10,299	Moved to the Troubleshooting and Beginner Help Section. The Repair and Warranty Service section is for feedback on services or inquires and recommendations where to seek repair service - did they do a good job? Was warranty coverage worth it? One thing to check is if the mirror bumper foam has turned in to a sticky, gummy substance. Inspect the foam (touch it with something). Another clue is a residue line on the mirror leading edge where the mirror contacts the foam. If that is the case replacing the mirror bumper and the light seals may cure the problem. If the mirror bumper foam has deteriorated most likely the light seals need replacing as well. There are DIY light seal kits that should include the mirror bumper. Otherwise the camera would benefit from a Cleaning, Lubricating and Adjustment (CLA). If you don't have the experience, skills and tools to DIY a repair service like Garry's Camera Repair may work on this model of camera. Check if there is a local camera repair shop that will work on it.

03-26-2023, 09:08 PM	#3
pentaxus Site Supporter Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Central Coast, CA Posts: 1,273	Gooey foam is the most common. For some cameras the adhesive on the double stick tape that was used to mount the mirror gets gooey and the mirror starts sliding down. When the mirror slides down it is farther forward when it moves up which causes the mirror to rub against a light baffle in the mirror box. In this case the mirror needs to be removed and re-glued.

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