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Message |
    
Ismaelg
Tinkerer
Username: Ismaelg
Post Number: 48
Registered: 11-2009
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, March 18, 2010 - 08:04 pm: | 
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Hello,
I have several (about a dozen) 35mm SLRs and I haven't been successful in properly cleaning the focusing screens (over the mirror where the microprisms and/or split focusing devices are).
Any suggestions? Comments?
Thanks,
Ismael |
Rick_oleson
Tinkerer
Username: Rick_oleson
Post Number: 1074
Registered: 07-2006
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, March 18, 2010 - 09:54 pm: |
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Are you able to remove the screens? If so, an ultrasonic jewelry cleaner is probably the best way. |
Puderse
Tinkerer
Username: Puderse
Post Number: 50
Registered: 09-2006
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, March 19, 2010 - 07:59 am: |
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The debris on the focus screen has zero effect on the image.
Why bother? |
Chiccolini
Tinkerer
Username: Chiccolini
Post Number: 86
Registered: 06-2009
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, March 19, 2010 - 12:13 pm: |
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I have so-so success on that myself. I usually use a Q-Tip damped with lighter fluid or rubbing alcohol or lens cleaner fluid. Black bits of dirt above the screen remain. Usually a stain will remain. On some screens the horrible mold or rotted foam pattern from higher up above the prism can be seen directly across the screen.
As Pud. said, I look straight through the debris and keep on shooting.
If it really bothers you, disassemble and wash the screen with a toothbrush and soapy water. |
Monopix
Tinkerer
Username: Monopix
Post Number: 114
Registered: 11-2008
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, March 19, 2010 - 12:19 pm: |
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If you can't, or don't want to, take the screen out then a gentle brush or a puff of air is as much as I would recommend. Definitely don't put any liquid on it.
If you can take them out, I've had success washing them GENTLY in liquid soap and water. Once washed, spray liberally with isopropyl alcohol (to drive off the water) and then blow dry with a can of air. |
Mikel
Tinkerer
Username: Mikel
Post Number: 219
Registered: 07-2006
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, March 19, 2010 - 02:38 pm: |
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I typically use windex on removable screens which are dirty.
For those which are contaminated with deteriorated mirror foam, I use naptha. I used isoprpyl alcohol until it permanently fogged a Yashica FX-2 screen, making it unusable.
The plastic is very soft and any kind of abrasion must be avoided.
Ultrasonic cleaners are great if you have one. Just don't leave it in too long...... |
