My K1 shell is cracked. Will Precision Camera replace that?

nzondlo · 02-06-2019, 01:28 PM

So a few weeks ago I dropped my K1 right on its head onto solid concrete. A large shard out of the shell and a cracked pentaprism are all the damage i've found. Still works but I obviously need to get this repaired.

If you're in the US, PrecisionCamera is the only official repair service for Pentax. I havent had a problem in the past. I know they charge a flat fee which used to be $200 the last time I used them, but has since increased to $350. Ugh.

Does anyone know offhand if they do body repairs? A large piece would have to be replaced entirely, and they don't seem to respond to questions until you actually pay them and send them your gear.

Last edited by nzondlo; 02-06-2019 at 01:41 PM.

Adam · 02-06-2019, 01:31 PM

I've certainly seen users send them lenses with broken barrels, so as long as you're paying, I don't see why it would be any different with the camera body.

They are supposed to give you a final quote before charging you if the price differs, however.

**twilhelm** · 02-06-2019, 01:45 PM

I had an acquaintance who did something similar to their K5 and had Precision do the repair. So I know they are able to, the cost though, I have no idea.

Good luck!

Not a Number · 02-06-2019, 02:02 PM

The only way you are going to get an estimate is to send the camera in for inspection. Precision won't charge you until you approve the repair and they are ready to ship camera back to you. Replacing the top cover and pentaprism shouldn't be a problem. Checking the rest of the mechanisms for shock or G-force damage will take some effort. You'll probably have to wait for parts from Japan.

Since it is not warranty work you can try another authorized service such as Advance Camera in Oregon. They might end up sending it to Precision though if it isn't something they can handle.

madbrain · 02-06-2019, 02:03 PM - **1 Like**

I had damage on my K-1 II shell as well, but more minor. The quote for replacement was a total of $439.04 :
Labor : $200.21
Parts : $193.84
Shipping : $45

I didn't have the work performed in my case. The quote was purposes of getting my insurance to pay for the damage. I was without the camera for over a month.

Paul the Sunman · 02-06-2019, 02:04 PM - **1 Like**

Ouch! Commiserations and good luck.

Docrwm · 02-06-2019, 02:32 PM - **1 Like**

Epoxy is your friend.......

nzondlo · 02-06-2019, 02:53 PM

Originally posted by Docrwm

Epoxy is your friend.......

The pentaprism is also shattered. AF still seems to work fine, though.

---------- Post added 02-06-19 at 02:54 PM ----------

Originally posted by madbrain

I had damage on my K-1 II shell as well, but more minor. The quote for replacement was a total of $439.04 :
Labor : $200.21
Parts : $193.84
Shipping : $45

I didn't have the work performed in my case. The quote was purposes of getting my insurance to pay for the damage. I was without the camera for over a month.

Insurance... now that's something I should have looked into a long timr ago!

---------- Post added 02-06-19 at 02:55 PM ----------

Fo you think at this point I should just have the shutter replaced as well while they have it? I've already had the camera over 2 years and use it pretty regularly.

Docrwm · 02-06-2019, 03:03 PM - **1 Like**

Originally posted by nzondlo

The pentaprism is also shattered. AF still seems to work fine, though.

---------- Post added 02-06-19 at 02:54 PM ----------

Insurance... now that's something I should have looked into a long timr ago!

---------- Post added 02-06-19 at 02:55 PM ----------

Fo you think at this point I should just have the shutter replaced as well while they have it? I've already had the camera over 2 years and use it pretty regularly.

Sorry to hear that, must be a mess. Sounds like repair is the only viable option.

MarkJerling · 02-06-2019, 03:37 PM

Originally posted by nzondlo

[/COLOR]Insurance... now that's something I should have looked into a long time ago!

This is most certainly something you want to lay in your insurer's lap. Good luck!

**hyyz** · 02-06-2019, 06:23 PM

I assume the D-FA 50/1.4 is fine. Otherwise...

nzondlo · 02-06-2019, 07:15 PM

Originally posted by hyyz

I assume the D-FA 50/1.4 is fine. Otherwise...

Oh yeah she's fine. All things considered. This kit has suffered a lot of drops and given me no problems. This time was just squarely on its head with all its weight.

Not a Number · 02-06-2019, 07:41 PM

I would hazard to guess the shutter and sensor are the two most expensive parts in the camera and the labor involved replacing them extensive. Replacing the shutter might push the estimate towards the not economical range (replace rather than repair).

**UncleVanya** · 02-06-2019, 09:22 PM - **1 Like**

How many shots? You can have a k-1 mirrorless if you can choose to only use live view...lol.

Unregistered User · 02-10-2019, 07:23 AM

I'd bought a used lens from B&H that they said was a "10" - like new. One of those fairly long and heavy lenses that requires a foot to mount on a tripod. Their warranty at the time on used stuff just said "90 days return", unconditionally.

So I'd taken the thing off the tripod after its first use and was holding the camera by a wrist-strap when the lens fell off the camera. The reason it had fallen is that the metal mounting plate in the back of the lens was missing two of the five screws that were supposed to hold it on the back of the lens. I discovered that when I removed the mounting plate from the camera, since the other three were still there.

Got an RMA from BH and they assured me it was eligible for return or repair. Sent it in (at my own expense), but they sent it back after a few weeks unrepaired, saying that it was not eligible for return because it had fallen. Well, DUH!!! They tried to persuade me that the fall had CAUSED the defect in the mounting plate. They went through all sorts of sophistry about it, but that was the bottom line - absolutely dishonest in my opinion, simply because it was going to cost them money they didn't want to have to spend.

I sent the lens to Precision, and they fixed it. I hadn't sent them the parts that had become separated from the lens (evidence), so they had to order stuff, slow boat from Japan, or something. Cost me almost five hundred bucks, but the lens is now probably better than new. Bottom line, yes, Precision will replace parts. Costs extra, though, since they apparently don't stock anything that's not commonly required. (And, by the way, I'll never buy any more used equipment from B&H.)

02-06-2019, 01:28 PM	#1
nzondlo Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2016 Location: Scranton, PA Posts: 186	My K1 shell is cracked. Will Precision Camera replace that? So a few weeks ago I dropped my K1 right on its head onto solid concrete. A large shard out of the shell and a cracked pentaprism are all the damage i've found. Still works but I obviously need to get this repaired. If you're in the US, PrecisionCamera is the only official repair service for Pentax. I havent had a problem in the past. I know they charge a flat fee which used to be $200 the last time I used them, but has since increased to $350. Ugh. Does anyone know offhand if they do body repairs? A large piece would have to be replaced entirely, and they don't seem to respond to questions until you actually pay them and send them your gear. Last edited by nzondlo; 02-06-2019 at 01:41 PM.

02-06-2019, 01:31 PM	#2
Adam Administrator Site Webmaster Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Arizona Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 51,597	I've certainly seen users send them lenses with broken barrels, so as long as you're paying, I don't see why it would be any different with the camera body. They are supposed to give you a final quote before charging you if the price differs, however. Adam PentaxForums.com Webmaster (Site Usage Guide \| Site Help \| My Photography) PentaxForums.com server and development costs are user-supported. You can help cover these costs by donating or purchasing one of our Pentax eBooks. Or, buy your photo gear from our affiliates, Adorama, B&H Photo, KEH, or Topaz Labs, and get FREE Marketplace access - click here to see how! Trusted Pentax retailers:

Similar Threads
Thread	Thread Starter	Forum	Replies	Last Post
So, I'm supposed to send my camera to these people...? (Precision Camera)	zazism_rx	Pentax K-1 & K-1 II	23	02-24-2018 01:58 PM
cracked mirror pentax K-r - DIY replace??	marcusBMG	Troubleshooting and Beginner Help	3	04-13-2014 12:22 PM
Cracked filter: replace or not?	wedge	Pentax SLR Lens Discussion	5	03-11-2014 08:46 PM
Shell within a Shell	Beachnutt	Monthly Photo Contests	0	01-31-2009 01:32 PM
Repair referal 100d replace cracked lcd	spb37	Pentax DSLR Discussion	6	05-26-2008 12:46 PM

02-06-2019, 01:45 PM	#3
twilhelm Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Florida Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 2,369	I had an acquaintance who did something similar to their K5 and had Precision do the repair. So I know they are able to, the cost though, I have no idea. Good luck!

02-06-2019, 02:02 PM	#4
Not a Number Moderator Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: Venice, CA Posts: 10,526	The only way you are going to get an estimate is to send the camera in for inspection. Precision won't charge you until you approve the repair and they are ready to ship camera back to you. Replacing the top cover and pentaprism shouldn't be a problem. Checking the rest of the mechanisms for shock or G-force damage will take some effort. You'll probably have to wait for parts from Japan. Since it is not warranty work you can try another authorized service such as Advance Camera in Oregon. They might end up sending it to Precision though if it isn't something they can handle.

02-06-2019, 02:03 PM - 1 Like	#5
madbrain Veteran Member Join Date: May 2008 Location: San Jose, CA Posts: 1,341	I had damage on my K-1 II shell as well, but more minor. The quote for replacement was a total of $439.04 : Labor : $200.21 Parts : $193.84 Shipping : $45 I didn't have the work performed in my case. The quote was purposes of getting my insurance to pay for the damage. I was without the camera for over a month.

02-06-2019, 02:04 PM - 1 Like	#6
Paul the Sunman Pentaxian Join Date: Aug 2011 Location: Melbourne Photos: Gallery Posts: 4,846	Ouch! Commiserations and good luck.

02-06-2019, 02:32 PM - 1 Like	#7
Docrwm Veteran Member Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Somewhere in the Southern US Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 12,285	Epoxy is your friend.......

02-06-2019, 02:53 PM	#8
nzondlo Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2016 Location: Scranton, PA Posts: 186 Original Poster	Originally posted by Docrwm Epoxy is your friend....... The pentaprism is also shattered. AF still seems to work fine, though. ---------- Post added 02-06-19 at 02:54 PM ---------- Originally posted by madbrain I had damage on my K-1 II shell as well, but more minor. The quote for replacement was a total of $439.04 : Labor : $200.21 Parts : $193.84 Shipping : $45 I didn't have the work performed in my case. The quote was purposes of getting my insurance to pay for the damage. I was without the camera for over a month. Insurance... now that's something I should have looked into a long timr ago! ---------- Post added 02-06-19 at 02:55 PM ---------- Fo you think at this point I should just have the shutter replaced as well while they have it? I've already had the camera over 2 years and use it pretty regularly.

02-06-2019, 03:03 PM - 1 Like	#9
Docrwm Veteran Member Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Somewhere in the Southern US Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 12,285	Originally posted by nzondlo The pentaprism is also shattered. AF still seems to work fine, though. ---------- Post added 02-06-19 at 02:54 PM ---------- Insurance... now that's something I should have looked into a long timr ago! ---------- Post added 02-06-19 at 02:55 PM ---------- Fo you think at this point I should just have the shutter replaced as well while they have it? I've already had the camera over 2 years and use it pretty regularly. Sorry to hear that, must be a mess. Sounds like repair is the only viable option.

02-06-2019, 03:37 PM	#10
MarkJerling Moderator Site Supporter Join Date: May 2012 Location: Wairarapa, New Zealand Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 20,408	Originally posted by nzondlo [/COLOR]Insurance... now that's something I should have looked into a long time ago! This is most certainly something you want to lay in your insurer's lap. Good luck!

02-06-2019, 06:23 PM	#11
hyyz Site Supporter Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: Michigan Posts: 478	I assume the D-FA 50/1.4 is fine. Otherwise...

02-06-2019, 07:15 PM	#12
nzondlo Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2016 Location: Scranton, PA Posts: 186 Original Poster	Originally posted by hyyz I assume the D-FA 50/1.4 is fine. Otherwise... Oh yeah she's fine. All things considered. This kit has suffered a lot of drops and given me no problems. This time was just squarely on its head with all its weight.

02-06-2019, 07:41 PM	#13
Not a Number Moderator Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: Venice, CA Posts: 10,526	I would hazard to guess the shutter and sensor are the two most expensive parts in the camera and the labor involved replacing them extensive. Replacing the shutter might push the estimate towards the not economical range (replace rather than repair).

02-06-2019, 09:22 PM - 1 Like	#14
UncleVanya Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Jul 2014 Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 28,445	How many shots? You can have a k-1 mirrorless if you can choose to only use live view...lol.

02-10-2019, 07:23 AM	#15
Unregistered User Guest	I'd bought a used lens from B&H that they said was a "10" - like new. One of those fairly long and heavy lenses that requires a foot to mount on a tripod. Their warranty at the time on used stuff just said "90 days return", unconditionally. So I'd taken the thing off the tripod after its first use and was holding the camera by a wrist-strap when the lens fell off the camera. The reason it had fallen is that the metal mounting plate in the back of the lens was missing two of the five screws that were supposed to hold it on the back of the lens. I discovered that when I removed the mounting plate from the camera, since the other three were still there. Got an RMA from BH and they assured me it was eligible for return or repair. Sent it in (at my own expense), but they sent it back after a few weeks unrepaired, saying that it was not eligible for return because it had fallen. Well, DUH!!! They tried to persuade me that the fall had CAUSED the defect in the mounting plate. They went through all sorts of sophistry about it, but that was the bottom line - absolutely dishonest in my opinion, simply because it was going to cost them money they didn't want to have to spend. I sent the lens to Precision, and they fixed it. I hadn't sent them the parts that had become separated from the lens (evidence), so they had to order stuff, slow boat from Japan, or something. Cost me almost five hundred bucks, but the lens is now probably better than new. Bottom line, yes, Precision will replace parts. Costs extra, though, since they apparently don't stock anything that's not commonly required. (And, by the way, I'll never buy any more used equipment from B&H.)