Canon VI-L/6L CLA Recommendations

styvone

styvone

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Hi,

Anyone know of any reputable shops in the USA that can CLA/overhaul a Canon VI-L/6L rangefinder? Just picked one up for not too much, but there does appear to be some shutter speed inaccuracy + fungus in the VF. I'm located in CA if that helps.

Much appreciated,

Steven
 
I believe Youxin only works on bottom-load Canon's.

I know you asked for US-based repair techs, but I sent my VI-T to Kanto Camera in Japan for a CLA. Did a perfect job. It's been my primary Canon rangefinder these past few years.

Jim B.
 
Oh, you might try reaching out to Ken Oikawa. I know that he works on Canon SLRS and fixed lens rangefinders (and does a fantastic job). Ken is based in California. You'll need to call him:

28288 West Worcester Rd
Sun City, CA 92586
Tel: (909) 246-9136

Also, you should confirm this is still his address
 
styvone said:
He told me not too long ago that he doesn't work on the Canon P anymore, which makes me assume he won't do VI-L's (since they are so similar). I will shoot him an email anyway, but do you have any other shops that come to mind?
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Ah, that's sad. I had him serviced a VI-L back in 2013. Still going strong.
 
Thanks for all the help everyone.

I've confirmed with Youxin that he no longer services the VI-L and the P.

Ken Oikawa's phone number doesn't seem to be active. I can't get through on my phone.

I've reached out to Dan and await his response. Does anyone know if ProCamera will take on a 6L? I know they do P's.
 
You could ask Don Goldberg. At one time he did Canon rangefinders. If he does, be sure to ask about wait times.
 
styvone said:
....Ken Oikawa's phone number doesn't seem to be active. I can't get through on my phone..
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Try this number: 951-246-9136.

Ken is a retired Canon repair tech. Mainly works on Canon FD-era cameras and lenses, but he may tackle a VI-L too.

Jim B.
 
Mackinaw said:
Try this number: 951-246-9136.

Ken is a retired Canon repair tech. Mainly works on Canon FD-era cameras and lenses, but he may tackle a VI-L too.

Jim B.
Click to expand...

I just chatted with him - a very nice and lovely person. Unfortunately, he does not work on the VI-L or the P.
 
presspass said:
You could ask Don Goldberg. At one time he did Canon rangefinders. If he does, be sure to ask about wait times.
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Indeed, he does work on Canon rangefinders. He quoted me $300 for an overhaul of a Canon P not too long ago - I'd like to find a cheaper option before reaching out again on a possible VI-L job :)
 
Ross Yerkes in Los Angeles. Just Google his name and call him. I bought my Canon 7 from him. He's been a camera repairman for a lo g time.
 
styvone said:
Indeed, he does work on Canon rangefinders. He quoted me $300 for an overhaul of a Canon P not too long ago - I'd like to find a cheaper option before reaching out again on a possible VI-L job :)
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Don has been doing my Leicas since around 2001. He CLA's Canon RF lenses. He worth every penny he charges. If my VI-T every needs work that's where I will send it.

He converted my M3 to a M3-MOT & M4 loading.
 
Deardorff38 said:
Give CameraQuest a call....
https://www.cameraquest.com/repairs.htm
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This^^^. I recently acquired a Canon VI-L that turned out to have a shutter capping problem at high speeds. I sent it to the Head Bartender for a CLA. The camera came back within four weeks and works fine now. I will say that it’s mildly annoying that he sends the camera back w/out any summary of what was done/repaired, but I’ve tested the shutter speeds and they seem good now. I’ve sent three cameras to him for CLAs and am pleased w/ the results.
 
Sad to learn that Youxin had stopped servicing the VI-L and P. The VI-L he restored for me back in 2014 is still doing great today...
 
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