Help, in need of repairs

Hamishdl · 08-17-2016, 01:32 PM

Hi all, I'm new to using pentax camera's. Long story short I've had a Pentax Asahi SP1000 given to me (correct me if that title is wrong). I've cleaned the exterior carefully and meticulously. The interior was in great condition so I had no need to repair that, however, I cannot remove the battery and not only that it seems apparent that it has leaked over the years. It had been unused for around 20 years so how this happened is unknown. Regardless if someone could give advice or send me in the direct of someone who could help, like a website or another thread I would very much appreciate it.

Adam · 08-17-2016, 01:38 PM

See this list:
https://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/189-repairs-warranty-service/316284-penta...e-listing.html

**arnold** · 08-17-2016, 04:43 PM

You can unscrew the bottom plate. I has four small screws, be careful to unscrew them over a large cloth so they don't bounce if they drop. You will now be able to try various combinations of hair dryer heat, vinegar and WD 40 to loosen the cover. There are two breather holes in the cover which may allow you to get purchase with pointed lever. Clean up green residue with vinegar then rince and dry.

Hamishdl · 08-18-2016, 07:18 AM

Originally posted by dcshooter

Just a warning, if the battery leaked in the compartment, there is a very good chance it corroded through the wiring underneath, which will have to be re-soldered.

With the bottom plate off, you will have to remove the three little screws holding the plastic battery cover in place and check underneath.

Okay il bear that in mind. Another question, considering the age of the camera, is it possible that the battery is only needed for a flash adaptor if I were to use it, thusfar it seems the camera can operate without a flash? I'm not sure how true this is.

**arnold** · 08-18-2016, 05:56 PM

Originally posted by Hamishdl

Okay il bear that in mind. Another question, considering the age of the camera, is it possible that the battery is only needed for a flash adaptor if I were to use it, thusfar it seems the camera can operate without a flash? I'm not sure how true this is.

The battery is only needed for the light meter, and the camera will operate without the meter. Use either "sunny 16" or another meter.

08-17-2016, 01:32 PM	#1
Hamishdl New Member Join Date: Aug 2016 Posts: 2	Help, in need of repairs Hi all, I'm new to using pentax camera's. Long story short I've had a Pentax Asahi SP1000 given to me (correct me if that title is wrong). I've cleaned the exterior carefully and meticulously. The interior was in great condition so I had no need to repair that, however, I cannot remove the battery and not only that it seems apparent that it has leaked over the years. It had been unused for around 20 years so how this happened is unknown. Regardless if someone could give advice or send me in the direct of someone who could help, like a website or another thread I would very much appreciate it.

08-17-2016, 01:38 PM	#2
Adam Administrator Site Webmaster Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Arizona Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 51,609	See this list: https://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/189-repairs-warranty-service/316284-penta...e-listing.html 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:

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08-17-2016, 04:43 PM	#3
arnold Site Supporter Join Date: Aug 2012 Location: Queensland Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 4,299	You can unscrew the bottom plate. I has four small screws, be careful to unscrew them over a large cloth so they don't bounce if they drop. You will now be able to try various combinations of hair dryer heat, vinegar and WD 40 to loosen the cover. There are two breather holes in the cover which may allow you to get purchase with pointed lever. Clean up green residue with vinegar then rince and dry.

08-18-2016, 07:18 AM	#4
Hamishdl New Member Join Date: Aug 2016 Posts: 2 Original Poster	Originally posted by dcshooter Just a warning, if the battery leaked in the compartment, there is a very good chance it corroded through the wiring underneath, which will have to be re-soldered. With the bottom plate off, you will have to remove the three little screws holding the plastic battery cover in place and check underneath. Okay il bear that in mind. Another question, considering the age of the camera, is it possible that the battery is only needed for a flash adaptor if I were to use it, thusfar it seems the camera can operate without a flash? I'm not sure how true this is.

08-18-2016, 05:56 PM	#5
arnold Site Supporter Join Date: Aug 2012 Location: Queensland Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 4,299	Originally posted by Hamishdl Okay il bear that in mind. Another question, considering the age of the camera, is it possible that the battery is only needed for a flash adaptor if I were to use it, thusfar it seems the camera can operate without a flash? I'm not sure how true this is. The battery is only needed for the light meter, and the camera will operate without the meter. Use either "sunny 16" or another meter.