Stuck release mode dial on Nikon D850

[Abinoone]

Dinosaur still using DSLRs needs assistance!

I just discovered that the release mode dial on one of my D850s won't turn, even when the little button (Nikon calls it the memorable name "release mode dial lock release") is pressed. Consequently, I can't change from Continuous High shooting to other modes (e.g. Single). This spontaneously started happening, and is not the result of any hit or bump. Any ideas how to get it working again, or will I need to send it back to Nikon?

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[JAJohnson]

I think I’d send it to Nikon, but perhaps someone here at BCG has sage advice.

 

[AlanB313]

My guess is some grit in the dial that a cleaning could take care of. I'd call them and discuss. I'm going to send my d500 in for a complete cleaning soon.

 

[Warren D]

I've had a couple of those fail, it's a broken part internally and requires Nikon to replace the assembly. It's been a few years but I recall it was a B2 service at the time which was $325. Probably around $400 now.

 

[Mal Paso]

Don't know about your D850 as it's faster But I leave my D810 there on "full auto" and can be on and off the shutter fast enough for a single shot.

 

[FastGlassGuy]

I don't know if I would consider this sage advice, but it might be worth a shot to try and use some compressed air in can and see if you can dislodge what might be girt or dirt as AlanB313 suggested. I would try and get close to the dial and spray several different directions at the gap between the dial and the body. I don't think this would damage anything. I think it's a long shot, but it might save you the hassle and expense of sending it to Nikon for service. Good luck. Ken

 

[Krümelkraft]

I did not find a D850 service manual, but assuming that the mechanism of that dial works in a similar way in both, D850 and Z9 cameras, I looked it up in the Z9 service manual.

Your description of the error suggests that the little pin of the "release mode dial lock release" (red circle) may be broken and stuck in the dial ring (i.e. in its locking position).
Could be also a bent brush (movable electronic contact) or a loose brush.
I'd probably send it to Nikon.

from Nikon Z9 repair manual

 

[Abinoone]

I did not find a D850 service manual, but assuming that the mechanism of that dial works in a similar way in both, D850 and Z9 cameras, I looked it up in the Z9 service manual.

Your description of the error suggests that the little pin of the "release mode dial lock release" (red circle) may be broken and stuck in the dial ring (i.e. in its locking position).
Could be also a bent brush (movable electronic contact) or a loose brush.
I'd probably send it to Nikon.

View attachment 100223
from Nikon Z9 repair manual

Thank you! This is probably it... have my Nikon shipping label all ready. Hope it isn't too expen$ive!