SteadiHub
2011Follow Focus forum

Diagnosing and servicing FMG.6 follow focus motors with calibration drift issues

15 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.

What the thread found

  • A motor that loses calibration and drifts to one side may have a slipped friction clutch rather than a faulty potentiometer, since the clutch transfers gear position data to the potentiometer and prevents it from exceeding its mechanical limits.
  • Tightening the friction clutch can restore accurate potentiometer tracking and eliminate drift symptoms.
  • Before pursuing motor service, test with a different cable to rule out cable-related problems.
  • FMG.6 motors were discontinued around 2002 and parts became unavailable, making professional repair difficult or impossible.
  • FMG.6 motors have less power output than modern alternatives and may struggle with stiffer lenses.

Depends on

  • No active service providers were identified for these motors as of the discussion date.
  • Parts availability ceased years before this discussion, limiting repair options.
  • The friction clutch tightening solution assumes the motor does not chatter, which would indicate a different problem.
  • User experience suggests FMG.6 motors can perform adequately for extended periods but lack the strength of newer motor designs.

Parts

Follow Focus

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