Need help with a Konica Auto S

Bigsaint

Ilfordholic
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Oct 22, 2013
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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 !!!
 
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 !
 
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.
 
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.
 
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 :)
 
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.
 
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
 
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