Problems with "new" G-III 17

Tony-S

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I just got a use Canonet GIII 17 from and there are a couple of things I either can't figure out, or are defective.

First, I have tried two batteries, a Wein cell and a 675 silver oxide in a MR9 adapter, but the battery check lamp will not illuminate. The batteries are good as they function in my F-1.

Second, it appears the meter isn't metering - perhaps because of the same battery issue? I point it straight at a fluorescent light while set to 'A' and the needle will not move to an aperture; it just moves slightly but remains at the top.

Third, when set to 'A' the shutter will not release. Since it's coupled to the meter, could this also be because of the battery?

Thanks for any help!
 
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First, the camera has full manual override...

First, the camera has full manual override...

I just got a use Canonet GIII 17 from and there are a couple of things I either can't figure out, or are defective.

First, I have tried two batteries, a Wein cell and a 675 silver oxide in a MR9 adapter, but the battery check lamp will not illuminate. The batteries are good as they function in my F-1.

Second, it appears the meter isn't metering - perhaps because of the same battery issue? I point it straight at a fluorescent light while set to 'A' and the needle will not move to an aperture; it just moves slightly but remains at the top.

Third, when set to 'A' the shutter will not release. Since it's coupled to the meter, could this also be because of the battery?

Thanks for any help!

However, it sounds like you have a meter issue. It's normal for the camera to not fire on A. There must be a fully charged battery sending at least 1.35 volts (original correct voltage from the PX625 mercury batteries) for the battery check light and meter function and operation on A.

I'd say take off A and shoot a roll of film manual using a hand held meter to see if all other functions work. Double check for corrosion in the battery compartment (that's a bit difficult because of the unusual configuration of battery placement) The slightest bit of corrosion can keep the battery from making contact.

Otherwise, I'd say it needs to be checked out. However, do the manual exercise first to see if you really like the camera. It's a good camera, but not a superb camera. Olympus made them over a long span, in huge numbers. (personal opinion)
 
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Make sure the battery contacts are clean. Even if they are shiny, wipe them off, a pencil eraser does a good job. As for the battery check lamp, these seldom function, the best way to check the battery is is to do as you did, turn the aperture ring to "a" and see if the meter needle moves.
 
I have two GIIIs and the battery check lamp works fine. It's how I check the battery. 🙂

If you are comfortable with basic electrical troubleshooting, I have (somewhere) a simplified electrical schematic which a technogeek helped my out with. I posted it here I think (may have been on that OTHER system) but I could re-post if needed.
 
I sent the camera back because it was a short return period (1 day). I picked up a Fujica 35-SE, though and it seems to be functioning mostly well. It needs new seals and the aperture/shutter speed linkage seems a bit wonky, but that could be because I don't quite "get it".
 
I found a QL17 GIII at a local used camera shop in Kansas City today. Picked it up for $30 and despite a few cosmetic issues it seems to be fully functional. It looks as though there is some dust inside the front element, but I imagine it's not trivial to remove it for cleaning since the meter sensor is on the lens cover. Any tips on that? Or should I just leave it alone?
 
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