K-3 hotshoe - can I glue it?

Zafar Iqbal · 08-22-2021, 05:12 PM

I had 2 K-3 II which I replaced with a K-3 II and K-3, when the actuation numbers got close to 250k.

First two went through repairs for loose/broken hotshoes and now, the hotshoe on the K-3 has become very loose too. It works, but will probably brake completely off next time I use the camera with an attached flash.

I can't remember how much I paid previously for repairs. Probably somewhere between 235-315USD.

Question is, could and should I glue it? I don't care about re-sell value, and if some sort of super glue can make it last for the remainder of the cameras lifetime, then that's more than enough for me.

MarkJerling · 08-22-2021, 06:13 PM

I doubt that glue will provide a reliable fix.

**Wingincamera** · 08-22-2021, 06:30 PM - **1 Like**

My flash mount on my KP cracked a while back and I ended up gluing it. The glue worked, but I was not careful enough and I glued the popup flash down also. I seldom ever used it so no real loss for me. I also ended up purchasing a second KP when they were on sale.
Here is the link to my thread:
Crack in flash mount - PentaxForums.com

**ramseybuckeye** · 08-22-2021, 06:52 PM

Originally posted by Zafar Iqbal

Question is, could and should I glue it? I don't care about re-sell value, and if some sort of super glue can make it last for the remainder of the cameras lifetime, then that's more than enough for me.

Originally posted by Wingincamera

My flash mount on my KP cracked a while back and I ended up gluing it. The glue worked, but I was not careful enough and I glued the popup flash down also. I seldom ever used it so no real loss for me. I also ended up purchasing a second KP when they were on sale.
Here is the link to my thread:
Crack in flash mount - PentaxForums.com

Definitely not a super glue, but an epoxy and that type epoxy the wing in camera used must work well with the material in the Pentax cameras. Just make sure you figure out how to clamp it before actually doing the repair, then read the directions, mix it well, and let it cure before using.

stevebrot · 08-22-2021, 07:09 PM

Originally posted by Zafar Iqbal

First two went through repairs for loose/broken hotshoes and now, the hotshoe on the K-3 has become very loose too.

That is very strange. Are you driving around with the flash attached? The shoe is attached with screws through the underside of the camera's top cover. You might be able to flood the area with epoxy, though there is no guarantee that will secure the point of attachment without disabling the built-in flash or the dribble down onto the diopter adjust or eyepiece works.

Steve

**DonV** · 08-22-2021, 08:04 PM - **1 Like**

Originally posted by Zafar Iqbal

I had 2 K-3 II which I replaced with a K-3 II and K-3, when the actuation numbers got close to 250k.

First two went through repairs for loose/broken hotshoes and now, the hotshoe on the K-3 has become very loose too. It works, but will probably brake completely off next time I use the camera with an attached flash.

I can't remember how much I paid previously for repairs. Probably somewhere between 235-315USD.

Question is, could and should I glue it? I don't care about re-sell value, and if some sort of super glue can make it last for the remainder of the cameras lifetime, then that's more than enough for me.

Is there a reason you don't use a handle flash? or use your current flash on a handle mount?

Move the stress from the not so substantial hot shoe to a robust mounting handle.

Zafar Iqbal · 08-22-2021, 09:20 PM

Originally posted by MarkJerling

I doubt that glue will provide a reliable fix.

Or at least least till next camera upgrade. I wont be using the mostly recently purchased two bodies for as long, as I used the first two.

Originally posted by Wingincamera

Here is the link to my thread:
Crack in flash mount - PentaxForums.com

Thanks! I'll check it out.

Originally posted by ramseybuckeye

Definitely not a super glue, but an epoxy and that type epoxy the wing in camera used must work well with the material in the Pentax cameras. Just make sure you figure out how to clamp it before actually doing the repair, then read the directions, mix it well, and let it cure before using.

Very interesting. Thanks! As for clamps, I own some that will do the job. Just checked and they "fit" nicely.

Originally posted by stevebrot

That is very strange. Are you driving around with the flash attached? The shoe is attached with screws through the underside of the camera's top cover. You might be able to flood the area with epoxy, though there is no guarantee that will secure the point of attachment without disabling the built-in flash or the dribble down onto the diopter adjust or eyepiece works.

I shoot at weddings and by the time the flash is added, I move more (dancefloor stuff). Plus, bodies hang from shoulder straps.

Originally posted by DonV

Is there a reason you don't use a handle flash? or use your current flash on a handle mount?

Move the stress from the not so substantial hot shoe to a robust mounting handle.

Yeah, I know. I looked into them before but such a setup will become too cumbersome when carrying 2 bodies.

stevebrot · 08-22-2021, 09:42 PM

Originally posted by Zafar Iqbal

I shoot at weddings and by the time the flash is added, I move more (dancefloor stuff). Plus, bodies hang from shoulder straps.

Normally, it is the flash foot that goes, that is why I wondered about vibration.

Originally posted by DonV

Is there a reason you don't use a handle flash? or use your current flash on a handle mount?

This...^ ^ ^...better to sacrifice a wired hot shoe adapter than the camera. Even better is wireless sync. Note that red-eye reduction is an inherent benefit. If too cumbersome, it might be time to ask what the second body is about or why you don't have an assistant.

Steve

Zafar Iqbal · 08-22-2021, 10:30 PM

Originally posted by stevebrot

Normally, it is the flash foot that goes, that is why I wondered about vibration.

Of all the flashes I've had, and I've had many and some really cheap ones, I've never had the foot break on any of them.

Originally posted by stevebrot

This...^ ^ ^...better to sacrifice a wired hot shoe adapter than the camera. Even better is wireless sync. Note that red-eye reduction is an inherent benefit. If too cumbersome, it might be time to ask what the second body is about or why you don't have an assistant.

Steve

Assistants are pretty much out of the question because of economics. Wireless would have been best solution, if it wasn't for children who use the venue as their playing ground. In other words, safety concerns. There are flash clamps, but those can't be used in all venues. Second body is obviously for backup and different focal length.

I'd love to get the flash off camera and have been wanting to do so for years. I'm actually so tired of the bounced light look, that forward pointed flash is exciting again.

MarkJerling · 08-23-2021, 12:11 AM

Originally posted by DonV

Is there a reason you don't use a handle flash? or use your current flash on a handle mount?

Move the stress from the not so substantial hot shoe to a robust mounting handle.

Very good idea. Knowing how incredibly thin the plastic is under the K-1ii's hotshoe, I now only use wireless flash. A tripod mount flash bracket is perfect for that.

**DonV** · 08-23-2021, 05:53 AM

Zafar,
Did you actually try the grip? A grip improves handling in other ways also, in addition to the flash benefits you mention.
I'm right handed and manipulate the camera/controls with that hand; the grip allows me to securely hold the camera and make adjustments without changing the left hand grip.

A grip may even improve the handling, as you won't have to be worrying about the flash security on the hot shoe. I'd give it a try. JMHO.

Zafar Iqbal · 08-23-2021, 06:32 AM

Originally posted by DonV

Zafar,
Did you actually try the grip? A grip improves handling in other ways also, in addition to the flash benefits you mention.
I'm right handed and manipulate the camera/controls with that hand; the grip allows me to securely hold the camera and make adjustments without changing the left hand grip.

A grip may even improve the handling, as you won't have to be worrying about the flash security on the hot shoe. I'd give it a try. JMHO.

Hmm, that's curious. I've never tried any I always thought handling would be worse/awkward. That's what's kept me from them. I think I'll give it a try.

Zafar Iqbal · 08-23-2021, 12:00 PM

Tried to see if I could fasten the hotshoe screws before using the glue. They are not accessible from the outside so I removed the top panel - but only one was accessible. Rest are hidden under underneath a board. The board was heavily glued, so I gave up.

I suppose it makes more sense now why getting the hotshoe fixed costs so much: because the entire top panel is probably replaced. How simple it would have been, if the screws were accessible.

Since I can't even remove the hotshoe entirely, I also can't apply the glue properly.

Oh, and btw, was uber surpriced by how weak the hotshoe area actually is. It just fitted on a thin layer of plastic.

**DonV** · 08-23-2021, 12:34 PM

Zafar,
I looked at your website- well done; and great pictures.

I no longer do weddings, and only did for friends many years ago; but the first one was done with a twin lens reflex and flash mounted on a handle grip- I could not have managed flash any other way.
So my idea of cumbersome was forged in about 1968 ; with a big boxy camera, flash calculations and manual focus.!

Modern dslr cameras are a pleasure to use and the handling is really amazing- with automated flash and focus!
Of course I did not have to worry about choosing "portrait or landscape" view with that big square negative!

Zafar Iqbal · 08-23-2021, 01:12 PM

Originally posted by DonV

Zafar,
I looked at your website- well done; and great pictures.

I no longer do weddings, and only did for friends many years ago; but the first one was done with a twin lens reflex and flash mounted on a handle grip- I could not have managed flash any other way.
So my idea of cumbersome was forged in about 1968 ; with a big boxy camera, flash calculations and manual focus.!

Modern dslr cameras are a pleasure to use and the handling is really amazing- with automated flash and focus!
Of course I did not have to worry about choosing "portrait or landscape" view with that big square negative!

Thanks!

Oh boy, 68 was a long while ago xD

I'm undecided between a flash handle or getting a bunch of light stands.

I think I'll go for light stands and have good talks with couples about safety.

08-22-2021, 05:12 PM	#1
Zafar Iqbal Veteran Member Join Date: Oct 2010 Photos: Gallery Posts: 1,229	K-3 hotshoe - can I glue it? I had 2 K-3 II which I replaced with a K-3 II and K-3, when the actuation numbers got close to 250k. First two went through repairs for loose/broken hotshoes and now, the hotshoe on the K-3 has become very loose too. It works, but will probably brake completely off next time I use the camera with an attached flash. I can't remember how much I paid previously for repairs. Probably somewhere between 235-315USD. Question is, could and should I glue it? I don't care about re-sell value, and if some sort of super glue can make it last for the remainder of the cameras lifetime, then that's more than enough for me.

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08-22-2021, 06:13 PM	#2
MarkJerling Moderator Site Supporter Join Date: May 2012 Location: Wairarapa, New Zealand Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 20,406	I doubt that glue will provide a reliable fix.

08-22-2021, 06:30 PM - 1 Like	#3
Wingincamera Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: Pine Haven, Wyoming Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 1,182	My flash mount on my KP cracked a while back and I ended up gluing it. The glue worked, but I was not careful enough and I glued the popup flash down also. I seldom ever used it so no real loss for me. I also ended up purchasing a second KP when they were on sale. Here is the link to my thread: Crack in flash mount - PentaxForums.com

08-22-2021, 06:52 PM	#4
ramseybuckeye Site Supporter Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Hampstead, NC Photos: Gallery Posts: 17,292	Originally posted by Zafar Iqbal Question is, could and should I glue it? I don't care about re-sell value, and if some sort of super glue can make it last for the remainder of the cameras lifetime, then that's more than enough for me. Originally posted by Wingincamera My flash mount on my KP cracked a while back and I ended up gluing it. The glue worked, but I was not careful enough and I glued the popup flash down also. I seldom ever used it so no real loss for me. I also ended up purchasing a second KP when they were on sale. Here is the link to my thread: Crack in flash mount - PentaxForums.com Definitely not a super glue, but an epoxy and that type epoxy the wing in camera used must work well with the material in the Pentax cameras. Just make sure you figure out how to clamp it before actually doing the repair, then read the directions, mix it well, and let it cure before using.

08-22-2021, 07:09 PM	#5
stevebrot Otis Memorial Pentaxian Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Vancouver (USA) Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 42,007	Originally posted by Zafar Iqbal First two went through repairs for loose/broken hotshoes and now, the hotshoe on the K-3 has become very loose too. That is very strange. Are you driving around with the flash attached? The shoe is attached with screws through the underside of the camera's top cover. You might be able to flood the area with epoxy, though there is no guarantee that will secure the point of attachment without disabling the built-in flash or the dribble down onto the diopter adjust or eyepiece works. Steve

08-22-2021, 08:04 PM - 1 Like	#6
DonV Site Supporter Join Date: Jan 2017 Location: Near Charlotte NC Photos: Albums Posts: 693	Originally posted by Zafar Iqbal I had 2 K-3 II which I replaced with a K-3 II and K-3, when the actuation numbers got close to 250k. First two went through repairs for loose/broken hotshoes and now, the hotshoe on the K-3 has become very loose too. It works, but will probably brake completely off next time I use the camera with an attached flash. I can't remember how much I paid previously for repairs. Probably somewhere between 235-315USD. Question is, could and should I glue it? I don't care about re-sell value, and if some sort of super glue can make it last for the remainder of the cameras lifetime, then that's more than enough for me. Is there a reason you don't use a handle flash? or use your current flash on a handle mount? Move the stress from the not so substantial hot shoe to a robust mounting handle.

08-22-2021, 09:20 PM	#7
Zafar Iqbal Veteran Member Join Date: Oct 2010 Photos: Gallery Posts: 1,229 Original Poster	Originally posted by MarkJerling I doubt that glue will provide a reliable fix. Or at least least till next camera upgrade. I wont be using the mostly recently purchased two bodies for as long, as I used the first two. Originally posted by Wingincamera Here is the link to my thread: Crack in flash mount - PentaxForums.com Thanks! I'll check it out. Originally posted by ramseybuckeye Definitely not a super glue, but an epoxy and that type epoxy the wing in camera used must work well with the material in the Pentax cameras. Just make sure you figure out how to clamp it before actually doing the repair, then read the directions, mix it well, and let it cure before using. Very interesting. Thanks! As for clamps, I own some that will do the job. Just checked and they "fit" nicely. Originally posted by stevebrot That is very strange. Are you driving around with the flash attached? The shoe is attached with screws through the underside of the camera's top cover. You might be able to flood the area with epoxy, though there is no guarantee that will secure the point of attachment without disabling the built-in flash or the dribble down onto the diopter adjust or eyepiece works. I shoot at weddings and by the time the flash is added, I move more (dancefloor stuff). Plus, bodies hang from shoulder straps. Originally posted by DonV Is there a reason you don't use a handle flash? or use your current flash on a handle mount? Move the stress from the not so substantial hot shoe to a robust mounting handle. Yeah, I know. I looked into them before but such a setup will become too cumbersome when carrying 2 bodies.

08-22-2021, 09:42 PM	#8
stevebrot Otis Memorial Pentaxian Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Vancouver (USA) Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 42,007	Originally posted by Zafar Iqbal I shoot at weddings and by the time the flash is added, I move more (dancefloor stuff). Plus, bodies hang from shoulder straps. Normally, it is the flash foot that goes, that is why I wondered about vibration. Originally posted by DonV Is there a reason you don't use a handle flash? or use your current flash on a handle mount? This...^ ^ ^...better to sacrifice a wired hot shoe adapter than the camera. Even better is wireless sync. Note that red-eye reduction is an inherent benefit. If too cumbersome, it might be time to ask what the second body is about or why you don't have an assistant. Steve

08-22-2021, 10:30 PM	#9
Zafar Iqbal Veteran Member Join Date: Oct 2010 Photos: Gallery Posts: 1,229 Original Poster	Originally posted by stevebrot Normally, it is the flash foot that goes, that is why I wondered about vibration. Of all the flashes I've had, and I've had many and some really cheap ones, I've never had the foot break on any of them. Originally posted by stevebrot This...^ ^ ^...better to sacrifice a wired hot shoe adapter than the camera. Even better is wireless sync. Note that red-eye reduction is an inherent benefit. If too cumbersome, it might be time to ask what the second body is about or why you don't have an assistant. Steve Assistants are pretty much out of the question because of economics. Wireless would have been best solution, if it wasn't for children who use the venue as their playing ground. In other words, safety concerns. There are flash clamps, but those can't be used in all venues. Second body is obviously for backup and different focal length. I'd love to get the flash off camera and have been wanting to do so for years. I'm actually so tired of the bounced light look, that forward pointed flash is exciting again.

08-23-2021, 12:11 AM	#10
MarkJerling Moderator Site Supporter Join Date: May 2012 Location: Wairarapa, New Zealand Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 20,406	Originally posted by DonV Is there a reason you don't use a handle flash? or use your current flash on a handle mount? Move the stress from the not so substantial hot shoe to a robust mounting handle. Very good idea. Knowing how incredibly thin the plastic is under the K-1ii's hotshoe, I now only use wireless flash. A tripod mount flash bracket is perfect for that.

08-23-2021, 05:53 AM	#11
DonV Site Supporter Join Date: Jan 2017 Location: Near Charlotte NC Photos: Albums Posts: 693	Zafar, Did you actually try the grip? A grip improves handling in other ways also, in addition to the flash benefits you mention. I'm right handed and manipulate the camera/controls with that hand; the grip allows me to securely hold the camera and make adjustments without changing the left hand grip. A grip may even improve the handling, as you won't have to be worrying about the flash security on the hot shoe. I'd give it a try. JMHO.

08-23-2021, 06:32 AM	#12
Zafar Iqbal Veteran Member Join Date: Oct 2010 Photos: Gallery Posts: 1,229 Original Poster	Originally posted by DonV Zafar, Did you actually try the grip? A grip improves handling in other ways also, in addition to the flash benefits you mention. I'm right handed and manipulate the camera/controls with that hand; the grip allows me to securely hold the camera and make adjustments without changing the left hand grip. A grip may even improve the handling, as you won't have to be worrying about the flash security on the hot shoe. I'd give it a try. JMHO. Hmm, that's curious. I've never tried any I always thought handling would be worse/awkward. That's what's kept me from them. I think I'll give it a try.

08-23-2021, 12:00 PM	#13
Zafar Iqbal Veteran Member Join Date: Oct 2010 Photos: Gallery Posts: 1,229 Original Poster	Tried to see if I could fasten the hotshoe screws before using the glue. They are not accessible from the outside so I removed the top panel - but only one was accessible. Rest are hidden under underneath a board. The board was heavily glued, so I gave up. I suppose it makes more sense now why getting the hotshoe fixed costs so much: because the entire top panel is probably replaced. How simple it would have been, if the screws were accessible. Since I can't even remove the hotshoe entirely, I also can't apply the glue properly. Oh, and btw, was uber surpriced by how weak the hotshoe area actually is. It just fitted on a thin layer of plastic.

08-23-2021, 12:34 PM	#14
DonV Site Supporter Join Date: Jan 2017 Location: Near Charlotte NC Photos: Albums Posts: 693	Zafar, I looked at your website- well done; and great pictures. I no longer do weddings, and only did for friends many years ago; but the first one was done with a twin lens reflex and flash mounted on a handle grip- I could not have managed flash any other way. So my idea of cumbersome was forged in about 1968 ; with a big boxy camera, flash calculations and manual focus.! Modern dslr cameras are a pleasure to use and the handling is really amazing- with automated flash and focus! Of course I did not have to worry about choosing "portrait or landscape" view with that big square negative!

08-23-2021, 01:12 PM	#15
Zafar Iqbal Veteran Member Join Date: Oct 2010 Photos: Gallery Posts: 1,229 Original Poster	Originally posted by DonV Zafar, I looked at your website- well done; and great pictures. I no longer do weddings, and only did for friends many years ago; but the first one was done with a twin lens reflex and flash mounted on a handle grip- I could not have managed flash any other way. So my idea of cumbersome was forged in about 1968 ; with a big boxy camera, flash calculations and manual focus.! Modern dslr cameras are a pleasure to use and the handling is really amazing- with automated flash and focus! Of course I did not have to worry about choosing "portrait or landscape" view with that big square negative! Thanks! Oh boy, 68 was a long while ago xD I'm undecided between a flash handle or getting a bunch of light stands. I think I'll go for light stands and have good talks with couples about safety.