My boss in Chicago insisted I never use WD-40 on a shutter mechanism, but it fixed a sticky Minolta X-700 for me.

He said it would attract dust and cause more issues down the line, but after three tries with proper cleaner failed, a tiny drop on the pivot got it working perfectly. Now I'm not sure if I got lucky or if his rule is too strict. When do you think it's okay to break the 'never use WD-40' rule for cameras?

3 comments

3 Comments

patjones1mo ago

So what's the real harm with a tiny drop? Your boss isn't totally wrong, it can get gummy and attract dirt. But like hill.andrew said, a seized mechanical part is sometimes a lost cause without it. The rule should be "never use it as a first resort." If proper cleaners and light lubricants fail on a simple metal hinge or pivot, that's when you break it. Just keep it far away from any plastic, cloth shutter curtains, or electronics.

parker_park81mo ago

Wait, you used WD-40 on a Nikon FE and it's still fine years later? That's wild, I would have bet money that thing would be a gummy mess by now. I guess the "never ever" rule really does have some rare exceptions for totally stuck metal parts. Still gives me major anxiety just thinking about trying it though.

hill.andrew1mo ago

Ever think the "never use WD-40" rule is too broad? I used to be a total purist, only using plastic-safe grease and lighter fluid for cleaning. Then I had an old Nikon FE with a film advance that was completely seized. Nothing worked. Out of pure frustration, I put a single drop of WD-40 on the advance lever pivot, worked it in, and it's been smooth for years now. The key is using a tiny amount on a simple metal pivot, nowhere near optics or electronics. Sometimes you just need to break the rules to save the camera.