Electronic Components Available (esp Minolta Capacitors)

[Jon Goodman]

I know this is a rangefinder forum, but if anybody needs capacitors to repair a Minolta X-series SLR camera (example: XG-M, X-370, etc), I probably have them and will be happy to send for my cost plus a few cents to cover mailing. As I recall, each capacitor costs me no more than 35 or 40 cents. Any of you who have replaced the Minolta electrolytic caps already know the size of the case is the main problem...some are 5mm long and one is 7mm. Furthermore, if there are other components which are commonly needed/used, I'd be glad to purchase in bulk and keep.
Jon

 

[Doug]

Good to know, John! And relevant to rangefinders too, as I understand the Minolta CLE's electronics are either the same or closely related to the X-series SLRs. I've had my CLE since new, with no parts needed, just cleaning of switch contacts. Are electronic parts failures common with the X SLRs?

 

[Jon Goodman]

Hi, Doug.
The X-series SLRs have a habit of losing their electrolytic capacitors...they are tiny little things, and they just dry out. Some of the X cameras went to tantalums, but it was late in the game and did not apply to all the X-models. The most commonly replaced capacitor is the one which kicks into the shutter release mechanism, but there are some upstairs, too. I think the CLE used the same stuff. Hopefully yours uses the tantalums...those don't die nearly as often.
Jon

 

[taffer]

Yep, dead capacitors on the X series Minoltas are usually the source of many mirrors being stuck locked up and shutters don't working. Even if its something of a simple capacitor, having them repaired here is impossible, they just say the electronic parts are no longer available so you have to send them out or just go the DIY way...

 

[Pherdinand]

Lots of x-700's are tossed over here due to that one single capacitor dying.