I repair cameras professionally and I think you should consult with a repair shop for their advice on this article. I do not have time to review it all myself, but there is obviously bad advice in it, for example the advice to use cameras with slow shutters or simply try tripping the shutter many times; if the shutter is slow, there is additional friction somewhere, and if that’s the case, then you’re wearing the parts out much faster than you think. You’re grinding bits of metal off with every cock and release. How do I know? Because I’ve seen enough shutters (and other mechanisms) full of metal dust, and grease loaded full of grit, carving grooves into parts. The service manuals for the great shutters e.g. Compur, Prontor, Copal, all emphasize that the life of an improperly lubricated shutter is expected to be 10x less cycles. The best advice for any old machine is to have a qualified expert examine and service it as needed. Most people wouldn’t even treat a lawn mower the way you’re suggesting to treat a camera!
I’ve dedicated a large portion of this article to explaining why sending a camera to the shop isn’t always feasible. I’ve also cautioned the reader against forcing any components into movement. I’ve since added edits to clarify those points.
That said, slow shutter speeds can have various causes, including oil vapour on the blades (which is addressed in another portion of the article, analog.cafe/r/home-film-ca…) and various kinds of oil contamination. Proper re-lubrication may solve these problems, but this procedure is costly, and it comes with additional risks of wear and, as you said, improper lubrication.
I reached the above conclusions based on my experience and extensive research. Following your concerns, I’ve asked around and received similar responses (like this mas.to/@sandehalynch@masto… and this bsky.app/profile/an.empty.…) from people who repaired numerous shutters, including the brands you mentioned.
