froyd
Veteran
I'm usually pretty diligent about removing batteries from my flash units, but this time I forgot and I had a AAA leak inside an unused flash unit.
I cleaned the contacts with sand paper, white vinegar, and rubbing alcohol, but I still cannot get the flash to power up when I put fresh batteries. There's still some corrosion on the terminals which are at the back of the battery box in an area hard to reach even with a cotton swab.
I read about the dangers of opening up a flash and being zapped by the electronics, so I'm not sure what steps to take next...other than the steps that take me to the trash bin
If it helps, the flash in question is one of those tiny Sunpak PF20XDs.
Any suggestions?
I cleaned the contacts with sand paper, white vinegar, and rubbing alcohol, but I still cannot get the flash to power up when I put fresh batteries. There's still some corrosion on the terminals which are at the back of the battery box in an area hard to reach even with a cotton swab.
I read about the dangers of opening up a flash and being zapped by the electronics, so I'm not sure what steps to take next...other than the steps that take me to the trash bin
If it helps, the flash in question is one of those tiny Sunpak PF20XDs.
Any suggestions?
charjohncarter
Veteran
I hope the problem isn't further into the flash than the contacts. I've done what you did above and easily restored power.
mpaniagua
Newby photographer
Most likely, corrosion/dirt got further on the contacts. A flash could be discharged by firing it but I wouldn't really suggest to open up a flash if you are not familiar with this kind of electronics. Flash capacitors can really held some power on them and it could be dangerous. I would say hand it over to someone who is familiar with electronics or trash bin. Try pulling the contacts a bit further against batteries. Probably cleaning process flattened them and they are not having a full contact on battery.
Marcelo
Marcelo