QUOTE (nickjohnson @ Sep 17 2009, 06:59 AM)

Michael, please accept my thanks too.
….. fascinating video – especially -
1)The “shims” used in mounting the sensor assembly into the camera body. I assume they are added to adjust the sensor surface to be be perpendicular to the centre line of the test lens ? If that is the case, me thinks any service centre doing a sensor change is going to need the same high standard of equipment and technical skill as show in the video. Apparently not all the M9's parts are fully interchangeable. Is this common in the industry – or only seen in the lower volume, high end products?
2)The hammering noise I heard – repeated every few minuets. I would love to know who or what hit who or what, and for what purpose !
Best regards,
Nick.
The shims are also common to virtually all DSLRs, and they are to adjust the distance from the lens mounting flange to the sensor as well as ensuring it is parallel with the mount. In servicing, you just have to make sure that the shims are kept in place after the sensor assembly is removed, to avoid mixing them up. If replacing either the sensor assembly or mirror box, factory equipment is needed for adjustment.
Not sure about Leica, but for servicing Hasselblads, the two of the most common tools were a hammer and file. Used for adjusting the camera to the shell.