*ist DS AF/MF switch problem

I've had a problem with the AF/MF switch on my *ist DS for some time now: it's stuck in MF. However, autofocus with my Sigma 15-30mm DG lens works fine, and by sliding the lens focusing ring to the manual position manual focus works too.

Has anyone else had a problem with the switch sticking? I have used other lenses on the camera, but only old KA and K mount manual focus lenses.

If this is something that needs repairing, where is good to get it looked at in the greater Manchester area (UK)?

Cheers for any help.

JB

It sounds as though it is stuck in AF mode, whatever the position of the switch.

Try the back pages of AP or PP for repairers' ads., and if you see nothing, send it to Pentax.

G

Or hang about for John Reilly, who's from Manchester. He may be able to recommend one..

Cheers

Liam

Before you do send it off for repair, bear the cost in mind carefully.
I would think you'd pay between £70 - £100.

It sounds as though the camera is still perfectly usable ie. AF works and obviously MF only lenses work fine too.
The only thing you'll have to remember is not to try manually focusing an AF lens (one without it's own manual selector) because the AF motor in the camera is presumably not disengaging - you probably wont damage anything but why take the risk?

Yeah I tried manually focusing the AF sigma lens and it didn't feel nice, so I won't be doing that again! What still bothers me slightly is that when I first got the lens, I used it in camera AF mode but with the lens ring in MF position. That didn't sound nice either, and the lens manual told me specifically not to, though I don't know if it would cause any damage considering I only did it a few times.

It sounds as if you knew you shouldn't use the lens in that way, it didn't feel right when you did and you carried on anyway...a lesson to be learned hopefully.

Hope the repair is not too expensive.

Well I read the full manual whilst trying out the lens, finding out that I shouldn't have done it after doing it. But the lesson was learned anyway. Having just re-read it, it doesn't sound too bad, though if I go to the repairers I may mention it.

We all do it, that is, fiddle first and read the manual when it doesn't work. It must be Human Nature.

Real Men don't read manuals!

Well I read mine Tim, and after reading johnnys predicament I am damm well glad I did, stuffing up the AF on my K10D by having my Bigma on the wrong setting would have really p!$$£d me off.