DOCUMENTED REPAIR · HOSTOPHOTO

Replacing the film-transport sprocket on a Canon A-1

Replacing a broken film-transport sprocket on a Canon A1. Complete disassembly and reassembly in two videos.

A few broken teeth on the film-transport sprocket severely hinder film movement during winding and prevent the frame counter from working. There is often no way to repair the part itself: it is made of hard plastic and cannot be glued back together. It is one of the first parts installed when the camera is built, so it is also one of the last to become accessible during disassembly. The complete operation takes 2 or 3 hours, not including the extra time needed to film it. Part 1 — Disassembly Part 2 — Reassembly Tools and materials used Screwdrivers Rubber cones Precision tweezers 5 mm hex socket driver Lens spanner Flux Solder paste Soldering iron Liquid paraffin oil Lithium grease 99% isopropyl alcohol