OM-1 meter not communicating with shutter and aperture changes
I was given this cute camera a while back along with three lenses, and I finally got a wein 1.35 battery to run the meter. I've taken some photos with it with an external meter (attached because why not) and it's a joy to use, but I thought getting the meter working would be more than worth it. With this battery the meter comes alive and responds to light as well as ISO dial adjustments, but it does not respond to either shutter speed or aperture changes.
I haven't been able to find any similar reports on the internet. Typically people find the meter completely dead, not partially dead like I have. With my limited/nonexistent knowledge of the internal workings of these things, the best I can surmise is that there is an electrical problem causing both of these issues (shutter and aperture communication) to occur. One thing I've thought of is maybe (unlikely, given its history) someone already adjusted the meter or added a diode for a different battery, but I would think it would still show movement for aperture/shutter at that point with a 1.35. I tried all three lenses, I tried inspecting the shutter speed/aperture lever and did not notice anything off... nothing definitive externally shows any issues.
I'm concerned about cracking open the top, having neither the tools or knowledge, but it appears a CLA is around $200 before the meter fix (?), which is close to what the camera is worth. It does need new light seals, though, and I don't know what the condition of other inner workings are, but everything accessible to me is smooth and clear.
I have an AE-1 that I've used extensively, but this camera is so tempting for more than a secondary body, especially with that 200mm lens I got with it. If someone knows what might be wrong with it, it would be great to know so I can either look for a quote for a job or try to tackle it myself. I mean, it was a free camera, and it would be fun to try... it is frustrating to have to use an external meter when I have another camera that doesn't need that. If I break it, then I guess buying a new one is about as much as getting this one fixed, from what I've seen.
(updated to include) If anyone has any recommendations for a good place to get it repaired, that would also be amazing. There are a lot of shady/undependable places on the interwebs.