Canon AE-1 Program Light Seal Replacement

Introduction

Old, degraded light seals in the Canon AE-1 can cause light leaks, leading to ruined exposures. Use this guide to replace the light seals in your Canon AE-1 to prevent these issues and extend the life of your camera.

What you need

Step 1 Light Seals

Canon AE-1 Program Light Seal Replacement, Light Seals: step 1, image 1 of 2

Canon AE-1 Program Light Seal Replacement, Light Seals: step 1, image 2 of 2

Hold the camera with the back facing you, and gently pull up on the rewind knob located on the top-left side of the camera using your other hand.
This action will release the camera back.
Carefully open the back of the camera to reveal the film compartment.
Place the camera on a clean, stable surface to access the grooves more easily and work comfortably on removing the old seals.

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Step 2

Inspect the edges of the camera back door, the hinge area, and the mirror damper (located near the shutter) for old or deteriorating seals.
Take note of where the seals need replacing.

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Step 3

Use a toothpick or tweezers to carefully scrape out the old, degraded light seals.
Be careful not to damage the grooves or scratch the metal surfaces during removal.

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Step 4

Soak a cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher) and gently clean out the grooves where the old seals were located.
This will remove any sticky residue and ensure a clean surface for the new seals.
Clear the work area of any remnants from the old light seal.

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Step 5

If your replacement seals are not pre-cut, measure the length and width of the grooves and use scissors to cut the foam strips to size.
Common areas to replace include:
Back door edges: Long, thin strips.
Hinge area: Small, thick piece.

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Step 6

Canon AE-1 Program Light Seal Replacement: step 6, image 3 of 3

Use tweezers to carefully place the new light seals into the clean grooves.
Ensure the seals fit snugly in place without sticking out or causing obstruction to the camera’s closing mechanism.

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Step 7

Canon AE-1 Program Light Seal Replacement: step 7, image 3 of 3

Gently press the new foam pieces into the spaces ensuring they fit flush within the space.

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Step 8

Canon AE-1 Program Light Seal Replacement: step 8, image 3 of 3

Carefully close the camera back and open it again to check for any gaps or misalignment.
Ensure the camera back closes securely without resistance and that the mirror damper is properly installed.
Your Canon AE-1 Program is now ready for a test roll to ensure there are no light leaks!