Bronica ETRS foam dampening for mirror replacement. How?

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Hello. I'm new here so I hope I have the correct forum.

The dampening foam on my ETRS is falling apart. I want to replace it but am not sure if the best way to access it.

Does anyone have some experience?
 
Be very careful. I'm guessing the foam in question--like the SQ series--is on the bottom side of the mirror. If it's dry and crumbling, so much the better. However, if it's gummy and sticky, things get tricky. Problem in both instances is removing the foam without spreading it all over, particularly on the mirror. That debris is tough to remove and any missed bits easily relocate to the wrong places.
You might be able to clear a strip along the lens-facing edge and attach a much narrower piece there. The best foam I've found for light seals is thin, adhesive-backed sheet foam carried by craft stores.
Can also recommend asking around at photrio.com. Good luck!
 
Thanks. Yes I can see debris getting everywhere. The foam isn't on the mirror it's on the camera body.
 
Thanks. Yes I can see debris getting everywhere. The foam isn't on the mirror it's on the camera body.
Then different on the Bronica SQ series where it's on the flipside of the mirror. There's also a light baffle that travels with it closer to film back.
Frankly, is this causing any issues with light leaks or is it just messy? Made between 1978-89.
 
Then different on the Bronica SQ series where it's on the flipside of the mirror. There's also a light baffle that travels with it closer to film back.
Frankly, is this causing any issues with light leaks or is it just messy? Made between 1978-89.
Just messy. I can't imagine it's great for the mirror as one side is almost non existent.
Do you think leave it alone?
 
Just messy. I can't imagine it's great for the mirror as one side is almost non existent.
Do you think leave it alone?
If you must give into an OCD clean-up(I once did regularly), try to shield the mirror with a bit of paper and tape. Camera mirrors are delicate and intolerant of cleaning--especially decayed foam bits that can smear and make a bigger mess. Some dust and a few foam crumbs will have NO effect on light transmission. If you want to try clearing foam particles be sure to remove the focus screen and back first. Try to get any crud to fall away from the mirror and light baffle.

Sounds like too much bother? Fine. I would take some time to inspect the light seals on the film back. Believe there are online tutorials that do walk you thru that.

Load it up and see what it delivers. The ETR/SQ cameras are sweet with good optics.Their electronics are durable. Have never heard of those failing.
 

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