Pentax ME mirror stuck

*clawhammer* · 10-15-2008, 03:40 PM

So, I'm looking at buying a Pentax ME from a friend. I tried the self-timer, and now the mirror is stuck up. It's not stuck to the foam or anything like that- It's just not releasing back down. I've pulled the batteries out and put them back in, but I haven't tried fresh batteries. I've looked at this thread, and was wondering if I've go the summary right:

I need to remove the bottom plate of the camera and 'reset' it. The rear shutter curtain is completely down, so that's not the problem. Is the ME roughly the same as the ME Super under the bottom plate?

Any help or tips are appreciated.

stevebrot · 10-15-2008, 04:22 PM

Proceed with caution in regards to a purchase! Issues of this sort indicate a worn or broken part in the shutter mechanism and often cost more than the camera is worth to repair (assuming the technician can find parts).

Steve

Fritz · 10-15-2008, 05:27 PM

If you like digging into old cameras, here is a link to a service manual for the ME.

Stevopedia · 10-15-2008, 07:24 PM

Try fresh batteries.

stevebrot · 10-15-2008, 08:17 PM

Originally Posted by Stevopedia

Try fresh batteries.

YES!! I was too hasty on my read of the initial post. With many cameras the mirror will raise and the first curtain will fly without power. Closing the shutter and lowering the mirror requires power.

TRY FRESH BATTERIES!

Steve

*clawhammer* · 10-15-2008, 09:28 PM

As much as I'm hoping it's batteries (and will be testing it with a fresh pair tomorrow), the shutter is closed. the second curtain has come down all the way.