Friday, March 19, 2010

Repair A Cracked Flash On A Nikon D40

The Nikon D40 digital single lens reflex (DSLR) camera has a self-contained, popup flash located on the top of the camera body in front of the hot shoe. When the flash unit is in the up position, it becomes vulnerable to damage. A sudden impact, twisting motion or heavy pressure can cause the flash to crack. However, a quick repair can return the flash and camera to use.








Instructions


1. Remove the camera lens and attach the camera body cap so cyanoacrylate adhesive fumes do not come into contact with any glass surfaces. Depress the flash mode button (lightning bolt icon) located on the front, right side of the camera body, just below the popup flash. This allows the flash unit to pop up.


2. Remove the two small screws, each located within the recessed well on the inside of the popup flash. Pull the lamp cover away from the popup flash.


3. Place a small amount of cyanoacrylate adhesive on the crack and allow the adhesive to seep into the crack for several seconds. Apply pressure to the cracked flash unit so the broken pieces are forced together and allow the adhesive to set Hold for about 30 seconds.








4. Wipe away any residual cyanoacrylate adhesive with a paper towel. Reassemble the flash unit after allowing 15 minutes for the adhesive to dry completely.


5. Place the camera in a safe location for a day, leaving the flash unit open so the cyanoacrylate fumes may dissipate. If the camera must be used immediately after repair, do not close the popup flash unit for 24 hours.

Tags: flash unit, popup flash, camera body, cyanoacrylate adhesive, allow adhesive