580EX problems....

specialman

specialman

Messages
8,193
Name
Pat MacInnes
Edit My Images
Yes
Anyone had any problems with the hotshoe connection ont he MK2 version of this flash?

We have a few in use at my place, in addition to some 550EX and original Mk1 580EXs and it's only the Mk2 with the ribber gromit seal that cause problems.

Seems that the seal between the flash and hotshoe isn't tight so allows forward and backwards play (when the camera is tilted), which cuts the connection. The results in the flash not firing.

The main offender is a 580 Mk2 with a 450D. The flash only works when the camera is tilted back, leading me to believe the contact between the hotshoe and the four contact points on the flash aren't aligned when in a horizontal position. The flash works fine with a 20D and 30D (they seem to have a more solid hotshoe) and other flashes work fine with the 450D. Tried a 550EX on the 450D and it works every time. The 550EX has one of the screw-down wheel fixings to attach it to a hotshoe. It also has a plastic hotshoe foot instead of a metal one that is on the 580EX Mk2.

Just wondered if anyone else had had this kind of problem? Any DIY fixes?
 
I am using 580ex ii on my 50d and once you turn the locking mechanism on the base the fit is rock solid. No hint of movement. (now i'm praying it STAYS like that after reading your experiences).
 
dubcat said:
I am using 580ex ii on my 50d and once you turn the locking mechanism on the base the fit is rock solid. No hint of movement. (now i'm praying it STAYS like that after reading your experiences).
Click to expand...

:plusone:

Use mine on a 40D and a 1D without any probs, I'm presuming you are sliding the hotshoe lock lever along?
 
Yep, sliding it until it locks. The main thing is we put our gear through a lot of use and I'm wondering if this is a combination of wear and tear on both the camera hotshoe and the flash foot. Think I'll just have to monitor it to see what happens....
 
The culprit could be the hotshoe on the 450D, the screws can work loose over time, causing connectivity problems. Pop the wee cover off the hotshoe and give the screws a wee tighten, with a bit of luck that'll cure it :)
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top