Need advice on old Program Plus

WDibble · 04-26-2015, 10:19 AM

My mom recently gave me her old Pentax Program Plus. She told me that the shutter only exposes half of a frame of film. I was hoping to put some batteries on it, and fire the shutter w/o film to see if the shutter was only half-opening. Upon inserting batteries, the camera does... Nothing. No LED's, no error's, no "1000" shutter speed, nothing. I can't get it do do anything. I have other 35mm cameras, but this is my oldest and my only Pentax. Should I just write this off and buy a new one on ebay?

**boriscleto** · 04-26-2015, 10:42 AM

Two things.

1. Did you put the batteries in the right way?

2. If yes, send it to Eric...

Home

Even if the batteries are in right it will likely need a CLA at least.

WDibble · 04-26-2015, 10:52 AM

1. Yes :P I second-guessed myself, checked, tried the other way just for kicks and giggles, and then double-checked the manual and put them in the original way. Nothing.

2. I'll think about it. Looking at his prices, might be cheaper to get a replacement camera. That being said, I hate seeing hardware go to waste... I'll give it some thought, thanks!

I also inhereted a f/1.4 50mm lens, and a 75-300mm Vivitar lens.

**boriscleto** · 04-26-2015, 01:20 PM

Originally posted by WDibble

1. Yes :P I second-guessed myself, checked, tried the other way just for kicks and giggles, and then double-checked the manual and put them in the original way. Nothing.

2. I'll think about it. Looking at his prices, might be cheaper to get a replacement camera. That being said, I hate seeing hardware go to waste... I'll give it some thought, thanks!

I also inhereted a f/1.4 50mm lens, and a 75-300mm Vivitar lens.

Even a replacement is likely to need a CLA, if you get a Super Program or Program Plus. At the very least they will need new foam light seals, and mirror bumper foam. The P series are newer and I've not come across one that needs a CLA.

If the lens is the A 50/1.4 it is worth far more than the camera. Even the M 50/1.4 sells for more than most old film bodies.

mltain · 04-26-2015, 01:32 PM

You could probably get a mint condition one on ebay, but you can't get your mom's old camera in mint condition on ebay, Eric can probably give you that though. I'm a sentimental old fool. I have an old .22 rifle that barely shoots anymore but I got it from my dad for my 11th birthday so it's going to stay with me till I die.

**sholtzma** · 04-26-2015, 02:52 PM

I guess one question is whether or not you are still committed to film cameras. If you need to put money into a body, whether for repair or replacement, is it worth going digital?

WDibble · 04-26-2015, 03:50 PM

Originally posted by boriscleto

Even a replacement is likely to need a CLA, if you get a Super Program or Program Plus. At the very least they will need new foam light seals, and mirror bumper foam. The P series are newer and I've not come across one that needs a CLA.

If the lens is the A 50/1.4 it is worth far more than the camera. Even the M 50/1.4 sells for more than most old film bodies.

How can I tell? the 50mm/1.4 is has goes from f/1.4-f/22, and then has an "Automatic" slider. I may just get a P series, then. Eyeing one for $10 atm on eBay.

Originally posted by mltain

You could probably get a mint condition one on ebay, but you can't get your mom's old camera in mint condition on ebay, Eric can probably give you that though. I'm a sentimental old fool. I have an old .22 rifle that barely shoots anymore but I got it from my dad for my 11th birthday so it's going to stay with me till I die.

I'm not emotionally attached to it, and neither is she. She told me to sell it for parts if I can't fix it. Our local camera shop that develops all my film couldn't fix it ten years ago, either.

Originally posted by sholtzma

I guess one question is whether or not you are still committed to film cameras. If you need to put money into a body, whether for repair or replacement, is it worth going digital?

I have a pair 'o digital bodies. One normal, one infrared. I also have been collecting cheap 35mm's to play with lately.

Here's one of my shots.

**boriscleto** · 04-26-2015, 04:00 PM

Originally posted by WDibble

How can I tell? the 50mm/1.4 is has goes from f/1.4-f/22, and then has an "Automatic" slider. I may just get a P series, then. Eyeing one for $10 atm on eBay.

What does it say on the front of the lens?

My 3 Amigos...

Name: _IGP9715.jpg
Views: 509
Size: 167.7 KB

The A has the 'A' setting on the aperture ring.

WDibble · 04-26-2015, 04:19 PM

I've left it in the car and our cat's an escape artist, but the aperture ring can be locked to the 'A' option.

Just went and got it. SMC Pentax-A. Matches the first one.

**boriscleto** · 04-26-2015, 04:27 PM

Originally posted by WDibble

I've left it in the car and our cat's an escape artist, but the aperture ring can be locked to the 'A' option.

Just went and got it. SMC Pentax-A. Matches the first one.

Not quite as desirable as the A 50/1.2 but still a very nice lens.

SMC Pentax-A 50mm F1.4 Reviews - A Prime Lenses - Pentax Lens Reviews & Lens Database

Because it has the A setting it is still fully functional with the "crippled" K-mount found on Pentax DSLRs. The 2 older lenses have to use stop-down metering and there is no flash automation on a Pentax DSLR. So the A series carry a premium over the K & M lenses.

WDibble · 04-26-2015, 04:35 PM

Originally posted by boriscleto

Not quite as desirable as the A 50/1.2 but still a very nice lens.

SMC Pentax-A 50mm F1.4 Reviews - A Prime Lenses - Pentax Lens Reviews & Lens Database

Because it has the A setting it is still fully functional with the "crippled" K-mount found on Pentax DSLRs. The 2 older lenses have to use stop-down metering and there is no flash automation on a Pentax DSLR. So the A series carry a premium over the K & M lenses.

Awesome! Good to know if I go get a newer K-Mount instead of an identical camera!

dubiousone · 04-30-2015, 05:06 AM

If you haven't already, try cleaning the battery contacts and then make sure they are actually making contact with the battery. You can tweak the tabs a little for better contact.

The value might not be measured in dollars. I have a Canon A-1 I purchased in the Army PX in 1979. A full CLA to keep it working another 30 years is way more than the price these cameras go for today but some things, like my old friend Canon, aren't measured in dollars.

titrisol · 04-30-2015, 06:59 AM

Nice pic of the Cary Phanrmacy!
If the camera was not fixable 10 yrs ago, I do not think you will have much luck
The A50/1.4 lens is worth every penny, you can use it in any Pentax camera and will work perfectly in the digitals.

I have an MZ7 you can have, I havent tested it in a while so I hope the gear is not cracked, I'm local so sendign you a PM

Originally posted by WDibble

How can I tell? the 50mm/1.4 is has goes from f/1.4-f/22, and then has an "Automatic" slider. I may just get a P series, then. Eyeing one for $10 atm on eBay.

I'm not emotionally attached to it, and neither is she. She told me to sell it for parts if I can't fix it. Our local camera shop that develops all my film couldn't fix it ten years ago, either.

I have a pair 'o digital bodies. One normal, one infrared. I also have been collecting cheap 35mm's to play with lately.

Here's one of my shots.

WDibble · 04-30-2015, 07:03 AM

Sweet. I'll get in touch with you for sure. At the very least, its always nice knowing more local photographers! Thank you everybody for the support!

titrisol · 04-30-2015, 12:07 PM - **1 Like**

A quyick shutter fix, if the blades are bent...

You Tube

04-26-2015, 10:19 AM	#1
WDibble New Member Join Date: Apr 2015 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 16	Need advice on old Program Plus My mom recently gave me her old Pentax Program Plus. She told me that the shutter only exposes half of a frame of film. I was hoping to put some batteries on it, and fire the shutter w/o film to see if the shutter was only half-opening. Upon inserting batteries, the camera does... Nothing. No LED's, no error's, no "1000" shutter speed, nothing. I can't get it do do anything. I have other 35mm cameras, but this is my oldest and my only Pentax. Should I just write this off and buy a new one on ebay?

04-26-2015, 04:00 PM	#8
boriscleto Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: North Syracuse, NY Photos: Gallery Posts: 16,475	Originally posted by WDibble How can I tell? the 50mm/1.4 is has goes from f/1.4-f/22, and then has an "Automatic" slider. I may just get a P series, then. Eyeing one for $10 atm on eBay. What does it say on the front of the lens? My 3 Amigos... The A has the 'A' setting on the aperture ring. Last edited by boriscleto; 04-26-2015 at 04:05 PM.

Similar Threads
Thread	Thread Starter	Forum	Replies	Last Post
need help! black program plus shutter stuck!!	newpentaxman	Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras	19	03-21-2011 12:02 PM
Stuck dial on my Program Plus	filmamigo	Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras	4	03-14-2011 05:44 AM
Using new lenses on an old Program Plus	dj_saunter	Pentax SLR Lens Discussion	5	09-12-2010 12:03 PM
Need advice! Pentax K1000SE - $110 plus lenses, etc...	lattyday	Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras	11	11-24-2009 06:23 PM
Keppler on Program Plus and Cosmicar	Nesster	Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras	6	09-30-2009 02:57 AM

04-26-2015, 10:42 AM	#2
boriscleto Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: North Syracuse, NY Photos: Gallery Posts: 16,475	Two things. 1. Did you put the batteries in the right way? 2. If yes, send it to Eric... Home Even if the batteries are in right it will likely need a CLA at least.

04-26-2015, 10:52 AM	#3
WDibble New Member Join Date: Apr 2015 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 16 Original Poster	1. Yes :P I second-guessed myself, checked, tried the other way just for kicks and giggles, and then double-checked the manual and put them in the original way. Nothing. 2. I'll think about it. Looking at his prices, might be cheaper to get a replacement camera. That being said, I hate seeing hardware go to waste... I'll give it some thought, thanks! I also inhereted a f/1.4 50mm lens, and a 75-300mm Vivitar lens.

04-26-2015, 01:20 PM	#4
boriscleto Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: North Syracuse, NY Photos: Gallery Posts: 16,475	Originally posted by WDibble 1. Yes :P I second-guessed myself, checked, tried the other way just for kicks and giggles, and then double-checked the manual and put them in the original way. Nothing. 2. I'll think about it. Looking at his prices, might be cheaper to get a replacement camera. That being said, I hate seeing hardware go to waste... I'll give it some thought, thanks! I also inhereted a f/1.4 50mm lens, and a 75-300mm Vivitar lens. Even a replacement is likely to need a CLA, if you get a Super Program or Program Plus. At the very least they will need new foam light seals, and mirror bumper foam. The P series are newer and I've not come across one that needs a CLA. If the lens is the A 50/1.4 it is worth far more than the camera. Even the M 50/1.4 sells for more than most old film bodies.

04-26-2015, 01:32 PM	#5
mltain New Member Join Date: Jan 2014 Location: Odessa Texas Posts: 13	You could probably get a mint condition one on ebay, but you can't get your mom's old camera in mint condition on ebay, Eric can probably give you that though. I'm a sentimental old fool. I have an old .22 rifle that barely shoots anymore but I got it from my dad for my 11th birthday so it's going to stay with me till I die.

04-26-2015, 02:52 PM	#6
sholtzma Site Supporter Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Salisbury, NC Photos: Gallery Posts: 1,043	I guess one question is whether or not you are still committed to film cameras. If you need to put money into a body, whether for repair or replacement, is it worth going digital?

04-26-2015, 03:50 PM	#7
WDibble New Member Join Date: Apr 2015 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 16 Original Poster	Originally posted by boriscleto Even a replacement is likely to need a CLA, if you get a Super Program or Program Plus. At the very least they will need new foam light seals, and mirror bumper foam. The P series are newer and I've not come across one that needs a CLA. If the lens is the A 50/1.4 it is worth far more than the camera. Even the M 50/1.4 sells for more than most old film bodies. How can I tell? the 50mm/1.4 is has goes from f/1.4-f/22, and then has an "Automatic" slider. I may just get a P series, then. Eyeing one for $10 atm on eBay. Originally posted by mltain You could probably get a mint condition one on ebay, but you can't get your mom's old camera in mint condition on ebay, Eric can probably give you that though. I'm a sentimental old fool. I have an old .22 rifle that barely shoots anymore but I got it from my dad for my 11th birthday so it's going to stay with me till I die. I'm not emotionally attached to it, and neither is she. She told me to sell it for parts if I can't fix it. Our local camera shop that develops all my film couldn't fix it ten years ago, either. Originally posted by sholtzma I guess one question is whether or not you are still committed to film cameras. If you need to put money into a body, whether for repair or replacement, is it worth going digital? I have a pair 'o digital bodies. One normal, one infrared. I also have been collecting cheap 35mm's to play with lately. Here's one of my shots.

04-26-2015, 04:19 PM	#9
WDibble New Member Join Date: Apr 2015 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 16 Original Poster	I've left it in the car and our cat's an escape artist, but the aperture ring can be locked to the 'A' option. Just went and got it. SMC Pentax-A. Matches the first one.

04-26-2015, 04:27 PM	#10
boriscleto Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: North Syracuse, NY Photos: Gallery Posts: 16,475	Originally posted by WDibble I've left it in the car and our cat's an escape artist, but the aperture ring can be locked to the 'A' option. Just went and got it. SMC Pentax-A. Matches the first one. Not quite as desirable as the A 50/1.2 but still a very nice lens. SMC Pentax-A 50mm F1.4 Reviews - A Prime Lenses - Pentax Lens Reviews & Lens Database Because it has the A setting it is still fully functional with the "crippled" K-mount found on Pentax DSLRs. The 2 older lenses have to use stop-down metering and there is no flash automation on a Pentax DSLR. So the A series carry a premium over the K & M lenses.

04-26-2015, 04:35 PM	#11
WDibble New Member Join Date: Apr 2015 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 16 Original Poster	Originally posted by boriscleto Not quite as desirable as the A 50/1.2 but still a very nice lens. SMC Pentax-A 50mm F1.4 Reviews - A Prime Lenses - Pentax Lens Reviews & Lens Database Because it has the A setting it is still fully functional with the "crippled" K-mount found on Pentax DSLRs. The 2 older lenses have to use stop-down metering and there is no flash automation on a Pentax DSLR. So the A series carry a premium over the K & M lenses. Awesome! Good to know if I go get a newer K-Mount instead of an identical camera!

04-30-2015, 05:06 AM	#12
dubiousone Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2013 Photos: Albums Posts: 112	If you haven't already, try cleaning the battery contacts and then make sure they are actually making contact with the battery. You can tweak the tabs a little for better contact. The value might not be measured in dollars. I have a Canon A-1 I purchased in the Army PX in 1979. A full CLA to keep it working another 30 years is way more than the price these cameras go for today but some things, like my old friend Canon, aren't measured in dollars.

04-30-2015, 06:59 AM	#13
titrisol Pentaxian Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: In the most populated state... state of denial Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 1,852	Nice pic of the Cary Phanrmacy! If the camera was not fixable 10 yrs ago, I do not think you will have much luck The A50/1.4 lens is worth every penny, you can use it in any Pentax camera and will work perfectly in the digitals. I have an MZ7 you can have, I havent tested it in a while so I hope the gear is not cracked, I'm local so sendign you a PM Originally posted by WDibble How can I tell? the 50mm/1.4 is has goes from f/1.4-f/22, and then has an "Automatic" slider. I may just get a P series, then. Eyeing one for $10 atm on eBay. I'm not emotionally attached to it, and neither is she. She told me to sell it for parts if I can't fix it. Our local camera shop that develops all my film couldn't fix it ten years ago, either. I have a pair 'o digital bodies. One normal, one infrared. I also have been collecting cheap 35mm's to play with lately. Here's one of my shots.

04-30-2015, 07:03 AM	#14
WDibble New Member Join Date: Apr 2015 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 16 Original Poster	Sweet. I'll get in touch with you for sure. At the very least, its always nice knowing more local photographers! Thank you everybody for the support!