Possible Pentax 6x7 issue?

[Dunn]

Hey y'all!

So, I have a Pentax 6x7 (non-MLU) and haven't shot it in a couple months, but I took it out to test it on a tripod I just bought (Tiltall). I opened the back and turned the frame counter and closed the back again to "dry fire." Then the camera seemed to lock-up after trying to trip the shutter.

I tested the battery and it didn't light up. So, I thought I just needed a new battery.

Went and bought a new battery. Then had to press the "safety release button" to release the mirror and all seemed good again. It then dry fired fine.

However, the next day, I loaded it with film and went out to shoot.

The first photo shot fine and I advanced to the next frame.

On the second shot the mirror got stuck up again. I pressed the battery test button and it didn't light up. I removed the battery and re-inserted it and had to press the release button again.

I think I wasted a frame, but it seemed to be okay again. But, kind of scared to keep shooting it if this is something that is going to randomly happen.

Anyone experienced this? Suggestions?
Thanks for any help!
Ben

 

[Spavinaw]

Maybe clean the contacts of the battery and in the camera body? Just a wild guess.

 

[charjohncarter]

I haven't had mirror lockup, but shutter problems from low battery. My light still goes on but it still needed a new battery. These are not common batteries so possibly you could buy one that is past 'sell by.' Also, do as above first.

 

[leicapixie]

Battery ought to be 6 volts.
When fresh actually slightly more, but when older less..
Anything around 5.45 volts, no fire, no work.
The good thing no overexposed images..😀

 

[Scapevision]

sometimes having the shutter speed wheel set mid-setting can lock up the camera. The shutter release electro-magnet issue is also quite common.

 

[charjohncarter]

I love my 6x7, but it certainly has a lot of finicky issues: mid-shutter speed, don't take the lens off with the meter in the wrong order (or vice versa), difficult to dry fire, screwball battery (and in my case test light goes even when the battery is a little low), having to have a consistent exercise program so you can carry the camera.

 

[Scapevision]

I love my 6x7, but it certainly has a lot of finicky issues: mid-shutter speed, don't take the lens off with the meter in the wrong order (or vice versa), difficult to dry fire, screwball battery (and in my case test light goes even when the battery is a little low), having to have a consistent exercise program so you can carry the camera.

at least you don't have to spend 300 bucks every year just to keep it running 😎

 

[charjohncarter]

at least you don't have to spend 300 bucks every year just to keep it running 😎

That is true, I did have to have the meter fixed about 5 years ago, and of course new batteries. And it takes the best pictures ever.

 

[stompyq]

The mirror getting stuck is a common issue. I've had several that have developed this. It's a easy fix and shouldn't cost you much.

 

[BLKRCAT]

Mine did it once when it was SUPER cold (-20c). Also I have a 67. Never had any problems since.