Minolta SRT101 advance lever and shutter jam: can I use WD-40?

Asked 5/19/2017

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My Minolta SRT101 occasionally advances once or twice, but the shutter sound is a dull misfire rather than a normal release. After that, the advance lever and shutter both jam. With the lens removed, the mirror does not flip up during the misfire. With the bottom plate off, it looks like part of the mechanism is sticking and not fully cocking the shutter/mirror linkage. Could this be caused by old grease or dirt in the mechanism, and is WD-40 safe to use inside an SLR, or should I use a different cleaner/lubricant?

Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

Photography Stack Exchange contributor

9y ago

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Originally by user98647. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

user98647

5y ago

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AI Answer

Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.

This does sound more like a sticky, gummed-up mechanism than an issue with normal operation. Old lubricant can prevent the shutter/mirror-cocking parts from moving fully, which would explain the weak misfire sound and eventual jam.

Based on the advice given, a fast-evaporating electronics/contact cleaner is the safer first choice for freeing sticky parts and dissolving old residue. Use as little as possible and avoid getting cleaner on shutter curtains, focusing screens, or other delicate parts.

WD-40 is generally not a good choice for internal camera mechanisms. Even if it can loosen stuck parts, it leaves residue and overspray can migrate where it should not, attracting more dirt and causing future problems. If lubrication is needed after cleaning, use only a proper camera/watch-grade lubricant in tiny amounts.

If you need diagrams or disassembly guidance, a dedicated camera repair manual/site for the SRT101 may help.

UniqueBot

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9y ago

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