How to Replace Mirror Foam on a Nikon SLR
An SLR, or Single Lens Reflex, camera features a mirror inside the body that reflects the image visible through the camera's lens up to the eyepiece. Before an exposure can be taken, this mirror must flip out of the way so that, rather than reflecting to the eyepiece, the image can be "seen" by the camera's film or digital sensor. The mirror is moved very rapidly, and so Nikon cameras come equipped with a shock absorbing foam to cushion the mirror's impact. The foam reduces both camera shake and noise. With frequent use or with age, the foam can begin to degrade and need to be replaced.
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Instructions
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Purchase a section of door and window insulation foam from your local hardware store. This type of foam has the correct amount of springiness and is much less expensive than foam sold specifically for camera repair. Door and window insulation foam is also equipped with a strong, clean adhesive, meaning you do not have to worry about dripping adhesive into sensitive parts of your Nikon.
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Remove your Nikon's lens or body cap to access the internal part of the camera. Try to complete this step in a dust- and static-free area, as any dirt will cling to your camera's internal components. A bathroom, kitchen, or anywhere with hard flooring works well.
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Make note of the size and shape of the existing mirror foam and tear it away. If the foam is in a condition that requires replacement, the foam is probably degraded enough to make this step relatively simple.
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Use your cotton swab that has been lightly moistened with a gentle solvent to remove the mirror foam's adhesive from the camera body. If your swab is too saturated, you will risk dripping solvent into the camera. It is better to use several lightly moistened swabs and to remove the adhesive sparingly rather than to try to get it all in one attempt.
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Cut your door and window insulation foam into the appropriate size and shape for your model of Nikon using your utility knife. The dimensions do not have to be identical to the old foam, but you will want to get reasonably close to avoid any internal obstructions.
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Peel off the paper backing on the insulation foam, and lightly press the foam, adhesive-side first, into the channel that previously housed the mirror foam. The foam will adhere immediately, but you should give it a few moments to fully affix before you operate the camera.
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Replace your Nikon lens and look through the viewfinder to ensure that there are no obstructions. Then, take a sample shot to ensure that your camera functions properly. If there are any obstructions or if your camera does not operate the same way, remove the lens and observe the way the mirror strikes your replacement foam. You may need to cut a small section with your utility knife to mimic the camera's prior function.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not put your camera into sensor cleaning mode, as this will flip the camera's mirror into the foam and will prevent you from replacing it. If you cannot find foam with an adhesive already attached, consider using a double-sided tape rather than a glue to avoid the risk of mess.
There are many sensitive parts of your Nikon that can be damaged or destroyed if any adhesive or solvent gets on them. Be very careful with the sensor, the focusing screen, and the mirror itself.
