20 Most Recent Nikon F601 35mm SLR Camera Questions & Answers

Technical fault not a settings problem

needs repairing at a qualified shop

do you have a light meter & know how to shoot in manual mode ?

Spray WD-40 around the compartment door and try to let it trickle inside the compartment. That should break the acid corrosion buildup that holds the door from opening.

Try taking out the card and batteries then start it up fresh sometimes a restart will do the job simply because the camera has lost its memory .

The curtain is connected to ribbons to retract the curtain when taking photos. Either they came off the bar or are snagged inside. Have a camera shop repair this for it is a difficult task to do if you have no knowledge of syncronizing a shutter curtain
KEH Camera can help you at keh.com

The most common cause of no electrical function is some sort of corrosion on the battery terminal connectors.  Assuming the battery is the correct type (6V DL223A, CR-P2) and holding a good charge, it could be that one or both of the prongs at the bottom of the battery compartment has something on it. The F601 (or the N6006 version, which I have) is 16-17 years old now, and has likely picked up some battery corrosion over its lifetime. Try rubbing the top of the terminals with a rough pencil eraser (being careful not to bend the prongs over).
You might also check to see whether the battery is latching under the tiny tabs inside the edge of the battery compartment when it is inserted. It should be- this holds the battery down tight against the terminal prongs.
If the battery is good, inserted correctly (open terminal end in first), and the F601 still doesn't power up, then...ummm...

It sounds like your Nikon FM may be experiencing a mechanical issue with the shutter mechanism. Here are a few troubleshooting steps you can try:

1. Inspect the Film Advance Mechanism: Check the film advance lever and mechanism to ensure they are functioning properly. Make sure there are no obstructions or debris interfering with the movement of the advance lever.
2. Check the Shutter Release Button: Inspect the shutter release button to see if it's sticking or malfunctioning. Sometimes, a stuck or sticky shutter release button can cause the shutter to fire unintentionally.
3. Examine the Mirror Mechanism: Carefully inspect the mirror mechanism to see if there are any visible signs of damage or misalignment. If the mirror is flipping up unexpectedly, there may be an issue with the mechanism that controls its movement.
4. Clean and Lubricate: If the camera hasn't been serviced in a while, it's possible that dirt, dust, or dried lubricant may be causing the issue. Consider cleaning the internal components of the camera and applying a small amount of appropriate lubricant to the moving parts (be cautious and follow proper procedures when lubricating a camera).
5. Seek Professional Repair: If the issue persists after attempting basic troubleshooting, it's advisable to have the camera inspected and repaired by a qualified camera technician. They can diagnose the problem more accurately and perform any necessary repairs or adjustments to restore the camera to proper working condition.
6. Use a Different Lens: Sometimes, issues with the lens can affect the camera's operation. Try using a different lens to see if the problem persists. If the issue only occurs with a specific lens, there may be a problem with that particular lens.

It's essential to handle the camera with care during troubleshooting, especially when accessing internal components. If you're unsure about performing any repairs or adjustments yourself, it's best to seek professional assistance to avoid causing further damage to the camera.

Have you tried fresh batteries and setting the shutter speed dial to M90 or m250 whichever you have? If this does'nt work you can remove the camera bottom plate and gently pull a lever away from the advance cog. Some times things get out of sync in there. Sorry I can't be more specific but I did this many years ago. Good Luck.

There are youtube videos on this type of repair to DSLR cameras and I dont recommend that you try it unless you have incredible talent for small details and a very clean environment.

On many cameras, a lens error means the lens is not set to is highest f/stop such as f/16 f/22 and the like. The lens must be put in that mode for the camera so that the camera electronics can auto set the f/stop as needed. First thing I would do is look at the f/stop on lens with manual f/stop settings; such as the Nikon 50mm f/1.8D making sure it is set to the highest f/ number (smallest opening). Remove the lens check the dial. Also, is the battery fully charged? If all that is okay then do the following couple of things; 1. Get yourself a film change bag, they look like a black plastic/rubberish T-shirt. Put the camera in there make sure the bottom is fully closed, put your arms through the sleeves, they have elastic keeping light out. Open the camera carefully remove the film canister then using your fingers rewind the film back into the canister. 2. Okay, you do not have access to a film change bag, easy get a thick blanket or two, go in to a closet, close the door, put a towel at the bottom, cover your camera as best as you can then do the same as if you were using a change bag. Important, make sure you are in a completely dark place without ANY LIGHT working its way through to you. Next, being as your are using film, big congratulations for that, purchase a change bag from Adorama, Amazon, B&HPhoto. Every film shooter should have one. Hope the above helps you.

That is likely a job for an experienced repair technician, not for DIY.

Does the shutter operate when the back is closed? (In other words, does it expose the film?) If so, don't worry about it. If not, it may need service -- or it may be set at such a high shutter speed (1/2000, for instance) that makes the shutter open and close so quickly that you can't see it move.

if it takes a button battery replace it, or check for fungus growth (yes it happens) within the viewfinder.

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