Anyone who has experience in removing the film advance lever on an M6: I would appreciate comments on how this is accomplished, what challenges/risks may be involved, etc.

I'm considering replacing the swivel-tip M6 lever with the M3 style - any feedback from those who have done this operation would also be welcome.

Thanks.

-- Rick (koo@gene.com), November 05, 2001

Answers

It is very easy to do if you buy the special tool(s). Here is a link where you can buy the tools:

http://www.micro-tools.com/Merchant2/special.htm

It is then a simple matter of unscrewing the bezel around the shutter release button and lifting off the old lever. When you go to put the bezel back on, first turn it lightly counter-clockwise until it "clicks" (the threads engage) and then screw it home by hand. Finally use the tool to snug it up.

I did the same modification and I like it a great deal. It is now easy to flick the lever out even if there is a finder or flash mounted. The M3/2 style wind lever is only available in silver chrome from Leica. It should be a fairly simple matter to have the chrome finish stripped off and to get it powder coated black if that is what you need.

Cheers,

-- John Collier (jbcollier@powersurfr.com), November 05, 2001.

John, You are so knowledgeable and always so helpful to other Leica users in this forum.

-- tom tong (tom.tong@ckh.com.hk), November 05, 2001.

I second that! It's great that there are people so willing to share their seemingly un-ending expertise. I've read most of the messages here over the last year as I want to get an M and I feel so much more aware/informed because of the advice on so many issues that I've found here - there can be no excuse for not knowing what I'm getting into!! FWIW I think this is the most interesting/informative site I read.

-- Neil Philip (philipnc@mail.aramco.com.sa), November 05, 2001.