konica Auto S3 metering issues

[smileyguy]

Hi all,

I am brand new here and wanted to ask a question about a recently acquired Konica Auto S3. I got the camera on Friday for $10CAD(!) and ended up putting a new battery in it as the meter was not reading at all. The meter is registering changes in light but not anything extreme even when pointed into bright light or darkness. The battery I used in it was the Wein Cell MRB675. It did take sometime before it started working and now, a few days later, seems to not be working as it should. Is there an easy fix for this? I don't mind tinkering and I am not particularly interested in dropping a bunch of money on this camera so any input you have would be very helpful.

Some background on me as a new member to this forum: I am a hobby photographer (musician by day... and night) and normally use my Canon Rebel SLR. I just finished off my first roll of med format film in my late grandfather's Kodak pocket Jr. 1A. I have yet to see the results but will hopefully have something in hand by the end of the week.

I also recently started my own business in photo retouching and restoration and can be found online at www.wesmoredigital.ca. I am living and working in southern Ontario.

 

[smileyguy]

Do I need any "special" tools for that? I have a set of jewellers screwdrivers and basic around the house tools. Time consuming?

 

[kmack]

I had a similar problem with my S2.

I had two problems.
1. The contacts for the battery had become insulated. Cleaned the battery compartment with a q-tip dipped lightly in vinegar. After that the battery check showed a good battery but the meter still would not read.

2. Over time the lead wire to the light sensor had opened. I re-soldered the
wiring to the sensor.

The meter is working now, but the sensitivity is poor. Good for outdoor lighting (consistant with my Gossen and the meter on my Canon A1) but not indoor lighting.

 

[matu]

For me, same story that kmack, the readings arent accurate for low light situations but outdoor it is ok, you can live with that if you have handheld meter.
When you see you first pictures you won't regret the meter is malfunctioning.

 

[smileyguy]

Well, we'll see how the pictures go. I just shot a roll of 24 in the park with my daughter. On again, off again sunny day in the fall. Bright red, yellow and blue playground equipment. Cutie daughter. Should be just fine. 😉

 

[Nick R.]

I don't remember if the battery compartment for the S3 is vented. The wein cell does need air. The S2 is a fully manual camera with AE. The S3, on the other hand, is not. However, you can use a handheld meter to check the meter reading. Not much you can do about it if it's off except fix the camera.
$10CAD is a great price, BTW.