Re: Solvent for shutter cleaning

[P3D Gary Cullen <cullen@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

I've been repairing cameras for 22 years and have always used white gas
(camping fuel) for cleaning shutters (with or without sound cleaners) with
great success. I would shy away from using toluene, xylene or any of the
ketones which I believe are all carcinogens. Even white gas must be handled
with care but is, I believe, much safer than the others. 
If you soak a shutter you should do 2 soakings (with or without a sound
cleaner) and discard the solvent each time or you run the risk of an oil
film getting on the shutter blades. 
As far as should there be any lubricant left the answer is no for any area
where the shutter blades touch and yes for other areas such as cams,
cocking lever contact areas and slow speed escapements. So if you are
soaking the whole shutter in solvent you will have to re-lubricate those
specific areas depending on the camera type you have. You should use a
light grease on cams and cocking contact areas and a light oil for
escapement lube points. When using oil remember "less is better", only the
tiniest amount is needed for escapement points. 
If you need specific info for a certain camera let me know. I have repaired
most stereo cameras over the years, though I may not remember specific
cameras in detail I still may be able to help.

Gary Cullen


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