Unjamming a Hasselblad. How to unjam 500-series cameras (500C, 500CM, 501C, 501CM, 503CX, 503CW)

[@paulwoloschuk1]

Thank you Jonathan. I watched this video and plenty of others about Hasselblad cameras when I bought my 503cx a few years back. I mentally put your video away for that dreaded time when my camera jammed. Today was that day! The shutter made an unusual 'click' when I pressed the shutter, and my heart sank. The lens would not come off the camera and the camera was jammed. I followed your instructions about the little silver screw a few times, but after I turned the screw, it seemed to hit a stop. OK, just one more try, but with just a little more pressure.....and I heard a tiny 'click'. Fingers crossed, removed the lens fine. Cocked and released the shutter on the camera a few times. Fitted the lens - repeated test. So happy! 😊

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Glad it’s sorted! Hopefully it won’t happen again but you know what to do if it does. When you mount the lens make sure it’s turned fully as it locks into position.

[@whalence]

I just had this happen out in the field with a 16mm extension tube. First shot, then it wouldn't wind forward--neither tube nor lens would come off. I remembered seeing this video at some point on your channel. Came home, watched it, and the problem was fixed in less than a minute. Thank you Jonathan.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Glad it was useful. It’s a common problem when using Hasselblad tubes and converters. Always mount in the correct order (as described in user manual) and make sure the tube and lens are fully engaged.

[@jcc6664]

Another lovely tutorial. I have a tip for re-cocking the lens if it becomes triggered. I would never use a screwdriver for the reasons you set out. I also don’t need any special tool. I simply use an old copper penny that fits beautifully into the slot and pretty well avoids risking any damage. It also gives a lovely flat surface to turn the mechanism. Like all your videos. John.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Good advice - thanks

[@stranly]

I'm currently trying to unjam my 500c right now. Unless the 500c is different some how I don't see how this is remotely possible. The only coin that would work as you describe would need to be made by a smurf. In fact I had to break out phone repair kit to find a screw driver small enough.

[@stranly]

Looks like my 500c IS different. I just watched another video that gives a better view inside, and there ared in fact 2 screws whereas mine only has 1 that's black and where the silver screw should be is a tab that would require something like an inverse flat head screw driver.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

@stranly yes, the cameras do differ slightly but the way the mechanism operates does not change. You need to gently turn the screen that’s inline with the shutter cocking mechanism on the lens. Don’t force anything and if you have any doubts you should contact your repairer.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

The lens cocking mechanism is the same on both cameras (otherwise lenses wouldn’t be interchangeable). Watch the video again and if it still doesn’t make sense then contact your repairer for advice.

[@johnward2964]

I just bought a 500cm circra 1973 in pristine condition and am now trawling through these 'what if' videos to get to know the camera. Jonathan, thank you for taking the time to film this and post it....what on earth did we do before KZbin!

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Glad it was useful!

[@loui.e0241]

thank you this helped tons i was gonna cry 😅

[@cinnamon--girl]

Thank you, Jonathan! I searched for a solution when the lens jams on the body and found this video. I got the lens off via the small screw inside the body. You are worth your weight in gold to this Hasselblad lover! Best wishes.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Glad it was useful!

As a retired part time wedding photographer from 1975-2010 Hasselblad was my main camera. Then went digital (Canon) for my last 5 years. I still have my 501CMs. Work great. I still love film. Process my own B/W film, scan it then print. Best of both worlds. Just unjammed my lens, thanks.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Glad it was useful!

[@suivezlemir]

I can't find the words to express how grateful I am for this video and your explanation. THANK YOU

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Thank you. Very happy to help. All Hasselblad users should know about this … just in case!

[@MrMelmount]

Thank you. I was not looking forward to a 4 hour drive to get my Hasselblad sorted, I am so grateful for this video. Hope to see more from you Jonathan.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Glad it was useful. Hasselblads don’t often jam but it’s useful to know what to do when it happens!

[@swedesrus25]

Thank you. Just bought a Hasselblad 500C and besides loading the first roll of film incorrectly (got that figured out), I removed the lens uncocked and could not secure it back onto the camera...until I watched your video. Lesson learned. The lens is now on the Hasselblad. Thank you. I am now subscribed to your channel.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Thanks. Enjoy your Hasselblad.

[@dylanhill1640]

I was so happy to find your video since my lens jammed today. Your tutorial cleared my problem in a few minutes. Thank you, Jonathan.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Thanks - glad it was useful!

[@JackMaine1]

Jonathan: Thank you. You saved the day for me. The shutter jammed though I could take the lens off. For some reason the body had not fully cocked when I turned the crank. Taking the suggestion from your video, I took off the back and just gave the screw a little "tweak" to the right which seemed to make everything right again. I never would have figured this out without your advice. I've used these cameras for decades and love them. Your channel is the best resource I have ever found for keeping these lovely devices working forever (one hopes!)

[@JackMaine1]

PS I now have a little screw driver in my camera bag.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Glad it was useful! It’s a trick all Hasselblad users should know about. The Hasselblad 500 series cameras are fantastic but occasionally the body and lens can come out of sync.

[@stljohnny101]

OMG Thank you!! I just pulled my 500 out of storage and was trying to remember all the settings, fiddling around, etc and got the lens jammed. The 2nd trick (through the body) worked perfectly!

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Thanks - glad it was useful. Enjoy your Hasselblad

[@johnward2964]

Thanks...this vid at least allowed me to get the lens off my jammed camera. The shutter on the camera is still locked so it may require open heart surgery. Thanks for posting this.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

A Hasselblad service should sort it.

[@edwardgrabczewski]

It's reassuring to watch this video. I don't use my camera enough to remember these tips and so when I need them then videos like this one are fantastic!

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Glad it was useful!

[@coryandpamela1]

Thank you so much, My 500CM was jammed with the lens on for the first time ever and your video worked perfect thank you so much,👍👍👍

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Glad it was useful. It’s a trick every Hasselblad user should know!

[@garrygadsby5061]

Hey Jonathan, Thank you so much for this advice, my camera and lens could not be uncoupled or cocked and after just a little turn of the screw as you described, it released and it now all works. The camera had been stored away for a few years and have just now been motivated to get back into using it and look forward to processing film again. 😃👍.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Glad it was useful! Enjoy your Hasselblad.

[@user-qo6vj6pf6k]

Brilliant - first time in using Hasselblads for years that that has happened and your help sorted me out - thank you!

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Glad it was useful - thanks

[@gilbertozamoranoavendano4156]

Hi Jonathan, Thanks for such a useful simple video. I was panicking a bit once I blocked my Hassi, but after following your explanation things are back to normal. Keep rocking with your videos. Cheers!

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Glad it was useful. It’s a trick all Hasselblad 500CM series owners should know about!

[@oldfilmguy9413]

Saving this video as I am getting old and forgetful! Cheers! 😉

[@CosietyMedia]

Thank you so much for this! Saved a late night in-the-cold photoshoot.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Very happy to help!

[@riswanc]

Thank you! Very informative video on how to solve some hassy on the go! Very grateful with all the information you share in your channel jonathan!

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ricardoleao_music]

Thanks for sharing your knowledge. Helped a lot. My 500cm sometimes jam when I lock the mirror up. Happened a few times

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Quite a common problem with Hasselblad. A service should rectify.

[@htchoy2]

Thank you so much, just fixed my 50mm f/4 recently bought from Japan seller after watching your video, thanks a lot!

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Thank you. Very happy to help. All Hasselblad users should know about this … just in case!

[@arricammarques1955]

@@WorldwideCameraExchange The framing takes a bit to get used to.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Yes, but with time you’ll get the hang of it!

[@cherylcole1732]

Thank you so much! Turning the screw a little unjammed it!

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Glad it was helpful!

[@philipvaughan1027]

Brilliant Jonathan , you're a life saver!

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Glad it was useful. It’s a trick all Hasselblad users should know about!

[@philipvaughan1027]

@@WorldwideCameraExchange thought I'd knackered it 😞

[@convexphotography2643]

This helped me get a little further, so thank you for this! I hope you might be able to help me a bit more though. I have the body by itself (Lens and film back are off). Mirror is up, winding knob won't turn, doors on back of camera are closed. I can wind the screw in the body like you did to tension the shutter and press the shutter to release the tension, but the mirror won't come down and the winding knob won't turn no matter what position this screw is in. Is there something that can be done to fix this? Thank you!

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

You will need to send to a Hasselblad repairer. I suspect the wind mechanism needs servicing.

[@TheKamrenB]

I had a very weird jam happen with the camera body alone. It was wound and everything but once I hit the shutter on O mode, and the doors opened and the mirror went up, but did not come down. The camera wouldn't wind either. I sent it to a Hasselblad technician and he fixed it and proved it on video. Once I received it, it was fully cocked and closed, I pressed the shutter button, and it got stuck the same way again. Nothing attached to it at all. Using the tool to turn the internal "screw" did not fix it either. It is back at the technician's workshop getting diagnosed again. Bad luck it seems like.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Has it not been used for a while? It sounds like something is sticking or has come out of sync. It might be worth having a full service at the same time as the repair.

[@NicholsonFeldman]

I’m having the same problem with a Hasselblad 500C body that was given to me. Did you ever find a fix for that?

[@allandossantosgomes]

Good afternoon friend, I speak here from Brazil. The mirror of my 501c crashed and doesn't go down anymore. What could have caused this? Is it easy to fix? Thank you very much

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

It’ll need servicing. Always use a repairer who knows Hasselblad.

[@KolbeinLyng]

Hi Jonathan, thank you for your informative video. I have used your advice to release a blocked lens and shutter on my 500c/m. I bought this camera many years ago without ever using it. Today I decided to start getting familiar with it and start using it. I discovered that it often did not fire, but did when I took of the lens and the magasine. I found your video and observed that the blank screw in the camerahouse were unaligned, made the 360 degree turn, got the click. This took place with the lens on. Now I cannot get the lens off or fire the camera, with or without the back mounted. What went wrong? Best regards! Kolbein

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

You’ll need to get it checked by a Hasselblad repair. Something’s obviously wrong with the sync but it doesn’t sound too serious. I expect a service will resolve.

[@gingerrussell8307]

Hi Jonathan, thanks for your helpful tutorials. I have another question about an issue I am having with my Hasselblad 500C/M, it's with the knob for film advance and shutter cocking. It seems to be sticky at times as I crank it, and sometimes it gets jammed. I know how to pop off the crank knob, I can't see anything wrong. Wondering if problem is bigger with an internal mechanism that I can't see. My camera body is from 1985 and my A12 back is from 1987. Any suggestions on how to address this issue? I would appreciate any expert help. Thanks in advance!

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

I think you probably need to get it serviced.

[@sarahduzzi5542]

Jonathan, I have a jammed body and lenses and can’t see to get that internal screw to budge, what would you recommend? Thank you so much for putting energy into helping us out here!

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

If the screw doesn’t turn then take the camera to a local Hasselblad repairer. Has it been serviced recently?

[@ElliotShayle]

I really appreciate the video, but the advice didn't work for me ☹️. My 500c with A12 back was working fine. Then I fired it with a cable release and Zeiss lens, and the whole thing locked up. The film mag can still be wound, but the body won't wind on anymore. The baffles are still open, and the lens is jammed in place. the little arm that sticks out the bottom right of the body (which helps to advance the film back) is still sticking out, and won't retract in. When I twist the silver screw, it cocks the lens, and the body fires, but it still won't wind on 😭. Does anyone have any suggestions?

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

It doesn’t sound like a serious problem but you’ll need to find a good Hasselblad repairer. I expect it all needs servicing. When was it last done?

[@ElliotShayle]

@@WorldwideCameraExchange Yeah, I suspect you're right ☹️. My grandpa bought his Hasselblads in 1971, and he retired in the early 80's. I think they spent the subsequent few decades in various boxes with minimal use. I inherited them after he died, but IDK when/if they were ever serviced.

[@a27102710]

Dear sir, it worked with 200/2000 serries too? My 2003 body shutter has been jammed 😢

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Do NOT try this with a 2000 or 200 series Hasselblad. You’ll need to send your camera to a good Hasselblad repairer.

[@mlmusiclover]

Hi! I've got a dilemma with a 503cx - the shutter won't work. The button can be pressed but there's no sound / the opening and closing of the shutter doesn't show. Everything in the camera is set up as it should be and I can't seem to figure out what's wrong. It was only loaned to us so we're a bit hesitant to constantly fiddle with it. Would highly appreciate any help!

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Make sure the darkslide is out and remove the insert in the back to reset the frame counter. If it still doesn’t work then you’ll need to get it checked over by a Hasselblad repairer. Good luck!

[@mlmusiclover]

@@WorldwideCameraExchange The slide was for sure taken out. We managed to remove the film back and lens easily but, the winding crank seems stuck.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

It’s jammed and needs to be serviced. Regular servicing is essential to keep these cameras in good working order. If they’re not serviced they will fail eventually.

[@hourvoyses3522]

Saving lives out here! Thank you!

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Glad it was useful. It’s a trick all Hasselblad users should know!

[@chelseakahana4982]

What if I can't take the magazine part off to turn that screw. I'm at a lost and I know nothing about this camera I don't want to break anything I just inherited this camera please help me

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

If you’ve got the darkslide in then the body/back is jammed too. You’ll need to get it serviced (something you should do every few years anyway with Hasselblad and anything mechanical).

[@lolabanky3305]

Thank you for this video. I am new to the Hasselblad landscape. My Lens 80CFE will not click and lock into the camera; the Sutter is mis alignsd and the lens Sutter is closed. I just watch this video. What is the name of the device to buy to gently align the screw on the lens or the the type of screw driver thank you so much for your time.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

You need to gently and carefully turn the shutter cocking coupling on the rear of the lens with a flat head screwdriver. Shutter cocking tools for Hasselblad are available online.

[@mactekkos]

Well I’m having a stuck 32E extension. Winding works, as does firing. Body AND extension are cocked, but when trying to unmount the extension ring I can only turn it like 5 degrees and no further … The ring doesn’t need to be cocked per the screw method since it’s already cocked. What else can i try?

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Don’t force anything. Send it off to your repairer.

[@jimmyzzzzz]

An easy way to recock the shutter is to place the lens face down on a sheet of paper on a table. Insert a penny into the slot and hold the penny steady while you rotate the lens barrel counter-clockwise in small steps until you reach one turn and the shaft locks.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Yes, but that only works when the lens is off the camera! Not much use when the lens is jammed on the body. The lens cocking tool is far easier than a coin or screwdriver but as always it’s down to personal preference … do whatever works for you.

[@luismanibarro]

Thanks a lot Jonathan, I will try it!!!

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Good luck!

[@helloworld2w]

Can i know watch brand or name that you wearing on that video? Its so cool

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Nite watches: www.nitewatches.com/collections/store-mx10

[@ericangeles5997]

Thank you this is so helpful and to the point!!!

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Glad it was useful and hope your Hasselblad is working again!

[@nicolasfavre3743]

Thanks a lot Jonathan, you 've just saved me !

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Glad it was useful. It’s something all Hasselblad users should know about.

[@Mattttson]

Your videos have been super helpful as I've started to orient my way around my camera. I have been trying to unjam my lens but no matter how much I turn the screw clockwise the shutter remains uncocked and will not open back up! Any hints?

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Ask a repairer to take a look. It’s probably nothing serious. Whatever you do, don’t force it!

[@Mattttson]

@@WorldwideCameraExchange thank you!

[@terrywbreedlove]

Any ideas why my 503 CW isn’t focusing with the lens wide open and out at maybe 60 feet and beyond ? Even with the lens set at infinity it isn’t focused on the screen. But stop down and it does looked focused. And in closer it looks focused.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Most likely a problem with the Hasselblad lens. Ask a good repairer to check the calibration. Also worth checking the Hasselblad body at the same time - just in case.

[@terrywbreedlove]

@@WorldwideCameraExchange I think I will send it in to Hasselblad see what they can fine. I have read they can be calibrated. The camera is in beautiful condition looks almost new. I shot a roll some close shots and some further out and will develop those today and see how they look.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

It would be unusual for a camera in excellent condition to have any calibration issues. Is the screen mounted correctly? Not upside down?

[@terrywbreedlove]

@@WorldwideCameraExchange It is in correctly but get this turn it upside down and it will focus. Well focus at least on the screen not sure if that translates over to the film plane.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Take a picture at infinity at full aperture with the lens set to infinity. If the result is sharp then the camera probably needs adjusting. The it’s out of focus then the problem lies with the lens.

[@CFelion]

my 500cm jammed/mirror locked up a few times and what worked for me with my cf lens was, taking the back off and press the dof preview button to lock the button and press again to release it, at the same time the mirror goes down and the camera is working fine again. hope this helps someone else.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

It’s probably worth getting your Hasselblad serviced. It sounds like something inside is sticking and needs to be regreased. Hasselblads will last forever if looked after so it’s worth the investment.

[@BBTEL3636]

Gonna try to resolve the issue now so I can hopefully get to launch my new HassyPB Been on the shelf too long and it’s not behaving Will LYK

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Hasselblads are fantastic cameras and will last forever if they’re looked after. Servicing will rectify most issues and guarantee years of faithful service!

[@BBTEL3636]

sadly tool DID NOT REMEDY gonna try the silver screw inside turn technique Ps a red dot is showing exposed by winder handle does that indicate an issue to resolve Shutter will not release however I was able to successfully attach lens Releasing it triggers lens shutter I think Thanks

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

@BBTEL3636 This won't resolve all issues. Your camera likely needs servicing.

[@RYANPARKPHOTOGRAPHY]

Thanks for sharing! hopefully I don't need but gone through just in case.. :)

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

My pleasure

[@Epictronics1]

Thank you 🙏

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Hope it was useful!

[@Epictronics1]

@@WorldwideCameraExchange It was :) But unfortunately, now my film back has jammed haha. Well, at least the camera isn't jammed anymore. I guess I'll have to take the back apart, clean, and lube the cogs

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Hopefully it shouldn’t be a major issue.

[@josesales7577]

THANKS FOR YOUR ELUCIDATIONS...

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Appreciated, thanks

[@michaelobrien8219]

very clear - very helpful - many thanks

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Thank you

[@mikewilliams7535]

Thank you this video really got me out of a jam (pardon the pun)

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Glad it was useful!

[@deathcoffin3547]

Thank you for your video, very helpful!

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Hopefully you’ll never need to use the advice!

[@ralphw.lambrecht4636]

thank You. I was looking all over for a simple explaination like this,but don't you need a female slot tool ad not a screwdriver for the body

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

An unlocking tool is available on eBay. Otherwise a long, correctly sized screwdriver

[@jcc6664]

I think there is some confusion here. You don’t use a tool to re-cock the little male connector in the body. The advice is for just the lens and I use an old copper penny which fits the slot perfectly. Don’t use a screwdriver.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

@jcc6664 you can use a coin to recock the shutter in the lens. If you’re trying to recock through the rear of the camera a coin won’t work. You’ll need a screwdriver to reach it.

[@jcc6664]

Absolutely Jonathan. I agree . Fortunately I have never needed to access this area. Long may my 500 CM never require it.

[@stavrost2871]

Hallo Sir. I used the shutter release button for mirror up (on the right side of my Hasselblad 500 C) and it jammed. I cannot fire, I cannot remove the lence. Please any help?

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

If the unjamming method described in this video doesn't work (it won't always) then you should send to a Hasselblad repairer. These are very reliable cameras - I expect something has become stuck and it just needs servicing.

[@stavrost2871]

@@WorldwideCameraExchange thank you

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Happy to help. Hope your Hasselblad is sorted.

[@porternessstudio8599]

Once again, thank you!

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

My pleasure - thank you

[@llewdis]

Thank you for this!

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Thanks. I hope it was / will be useful!

[@llewdis]

I hope not. 😊.

[@nicolasvisbal660]

You just saved me from a heart attack

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Glad it was useful! It’s a trick all Hasselblad users should know about.

[@kenklontz1945]

Hope I never need this but great to know thanks 😎

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Happy to help!

[@monjue4459]

thanks for the help.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Happy to help!

[@rogerwalker3201]

An American DIME works well to recook the lens.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Find yourself a Japanese 1 Yen coin. They’re made from aluminium and are relatively soft so won’t mark. Good for opening battery chambers too!

[@leethomaskc3327]

I have a plastic screw driver specifically for this purpose.

[@Thelonious666]

Thanks!!! Is fantastic.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Happy to help!

[@tedsmith_photography]

My 501CM jammed (as a result of me using wrong when I first got it) back in 2012; took the lens off without cocking the shutter! I totally panicked. Didn't know what I'd done wrong. I ended up buying one of the long pen like unjamming "thingies" to unjame it and sighed a breath of relief but ever since then, having learned by my mistake, its never jammed since.

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Yes, the little unjamming tool is worth its weight in gold!

[@KolbeinLyng]

Thank you!

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Hope it was useful!

[@aeon-sarah]

thank you!

[@WorldwideCameraExchange]

Hope it was useful!