Mercury batter leak

[freeranger]

Hi there,
I've just returned from the post office with my latest Yashica fix - an MG-1. It looks as if it has had little use since 1975 and still has a (dead) mercury battery in the chamber. The battery has started to leak but, as of yet, there is no sign of corrosion in the chamber or on the contacts.

Could anyone suggest the best way of neutralising the residue before I insert an alternative battery.

Thanks in advance!

 

[freeranger]

and those of you who were expecting toxic fish and chips...sorry about the typo 😉

 

[oftheherd]

I don't know if there is a difference with mercury batteries or not. Other batteries in use these days, when they leak, are ususally fixed with vinagar and a cue tip. Inspect the wiring well as I understand corrosion often travels along the wires. Good luck with it. Hopefully some with more specific experience can come on line and help.

 

[freeranger]

Thanks for the quick reply! I have vinegar and baking soda at the standby unless mercury batteries require a specific remedy.

 

[freeranger]

OK, cleaned out the chamber with the q-tips and vinegar. I was surprised by the amount of oxidised battery gunk that came out, as the spring and chamber seemed quite clean to begin with. I gave the chamber a final swab with benzin lighter fluid and then stuck in an alternative battery....and the camera works! 😀 Best 10quid i've spent in a long while. Thanks again for your help, oftheherd.