Need help with a Konica Auto S

[Bigsaint]

I'm in the process of giving a Konica Auto S a full CLA. I've gone through the lens, cleaned up the aperture and shutter blades and removed some faint corrosion in the battery compartment. The meter is still dead and I have assured I have current flowing past the battery. Has anyone ever disassembled the potentiometer ? When I turn the shutter speed I see the exposure needle moving in the viewfinder, but it does this without or without the battery installed.

Personally, I meter with a iPhone app or guess exposure when I use my S1.6, this one I am repairing for friend and I'd like to send it out with a working meter if at all possible. Any help or thoughts would be greatly appreciated !!!

 

[Bigsaint]

I spoke with Greg Weber aka Weber Camera via email. He gave me some points to check and after doing so found it to have a bad meter assembly. Oh well, I learned more about the function of the camera and it's still a great shooter, I'm happy I resurrected it to the point that it's functional and mechanically sound, despite the electronics. On a side note, many thanks to Greg for his expertise and time. We need more people like Greg in business, he is definitely a rare breed in these days !

 

[Greyscale]

Even with good electronics, the automatic functions of the S or S2 are prone to mechanical failure or inconsistency. Truthfully, you are probably better off without it.

 

[btgc]

Aperture has to be really clean to AE work well, in addition to electric part. Right now I'm reviving KAS and don't plan to restore A part - just the shutter, RF and light seals.

 

[Bigsaint]

I agree, even though I have a working meter on my KAS it's really of little importance to me. The electronics on these old beauties are unnecessary to enjoy them and I get more satisfaction using a handheld meter if needed or simply taking an educated guess. Getting them functional from a mechanical standpoint is where I derive my pleasure 🙂

 

[btgc]

You know what? seems I like using KAS more than KAS2 because of control rings which aren't flush to barrel. Lens, you say? KAS2 has highly coated lens, compared to KAS, S with its variations, and III. Though lens of KAS shouldn't be far away from old 48/2 lens which already does for me anything I want and even more!

I a word, first I dismissed Auto S model vs highly prized Auto S2 but this is just an internet hype. One has to use them and decide on ergonomics - nothing new said, really.

 

[Bigsaint]

Sorry for the late reply. I'm just wrapping up a repair on a SII with the 48/2 lens. Up until working on this camera, the Auto S was my favorite however I believe the SII ( not auto S2) is going to win me over. Even though the Auto S2 and 1.6 have great lenses optically speaking, I always despised their build and function. The SII has a solid lens with an awesome build. Just have to put in new seals and test with film to confirm 🙂

Scott