Canon Ae-1 Program Battery Removal
Jan 24, 2016 A quick guide about how to swap a canon AE-1 battery. The Canon AE-1 Program - Basic Steps. Remove the battery if you do not expect to use the camera for about three weeks. The Index page of Canon AE-1 Program.
This is the so-called 'Canon squeal', usually found in the brass flywheel brake located in the mirror box geartrain. The lube on the pivot shaft dries out and the bearing begins to wear. A tiny drop of lubricant on the bearing shaft will stop the squeal, no more (be advised that many an AE-1 owner has ruined their camera by spraying lube all over the internals). Sometimes the flywheel has worn oversize as well.
Then, there is the condition of the rest of the camera. There are many other mechanisms, including the shutter, that may well have dried out lubricants. The shutter speeds may be off and should be checked for accuracy and the shutter mechanism and magnets for grungy dirt and dried lube.
Canon Ae-1
The film advance mechanism may also have dried out lubricants. The viewfinder may need a good cleaning and the foam seals replaced. In short, a good CLA to take care of all these issues might be advisable if you plan to keep the camera long-term.