Re: [Leica] query re: unrepairable Leica Ms (R..)

["Steve LeHuray" <icommag@toad.net>]

And on this parts topic, do you know if M4/M6 rapid load parts are 
available. I am still considering the takeup spool on my M2 over to the
later Rapid Load system (not the kit).

Steve
Annapolis





>>From my discussions with Kindermann Canada there are some parts that are no
> longer available. Finders for the M3 are not available or repairable from
> Leica. There are some people resilvering M finders but I cannot say how
> successfully. All the other early finders can only be replaced (by Leica)
> with a M4-P finder, this can be done with an M3 but it requires some
> machining (read dollars). M4 and earlier hinged backs are no longer
> available and are replaced with M4-2(P) backs. The shutters are also
> replaced with new ones which are different (the subject of much LUG minutia)
> but still fit in the older bodies. I understand that original parts for the
> winding mechanism for the M2, MP, M1 and MD are getting a little thin on the
> ground; and, of course, parts for the winding mechanism of the M2R are
> extinct.* There are NOS vulcanite body shells about but for how long is a
> good (moot for me as they are so expensive) question. Thankfully, Leica does
> manufacture PVC replacement covers for its older cameras. I think that all
> the M cameras will be repairable by some means or other long after the last
> EOS-1V and F5 has fried its circuit boards.
>
> John Collier