K50 pictures completely dark

Maybe I'm not understanding, but I'm not reading that as very good service?

Whatever, that's the way he operates. He did say awhile back that he would release the info, but I haven't heard. He has an Ebay business and on his web site tells you how to make repairs using the parts he sells which he gets used for the most part.

All Precision Camera Repair (Pentax authorized here, bad ratings) says is that it replaces the Aperture Control Board, whereas, the CA guy says he works on it, doesn't change any parts.

Too be honest, I really don't care what he does as long as it works. But I do see your point.

Hi, I need some help. I have to choose between a K70 body and a “new” K3 body (not the version K3 II) next week. I want to take an extended 4-year warranty (I’m not sure at all that the problem with the aperture motor failure has been solved in the K70). Therefore, I think the extended warranty (expensive) is a must. My K50 died after 3 years!
So, because of this extra expense, the total price of a K70 will be exactly the same as the price of a brand new K3. What to choose? I take only pictures, no video at all… I shoot in RAW and do the processing with Lightroom.
The only thing that I shall regret, I think, is the flipping screen…, I know that!
So, at the same price, a K70 or a K3?
thanks
Pilo (Antwerp, Belgium)

What does the K70 extended warranty cover? How many reports of K70's failing have you heard about? (Can't say I've heard of any here.) A K3 is just as likely to fail. Which do you prefer, the lighter K70 or the more 'pro' K3?
I've got a K-3 and a K-1 but often just take out a K-S1 as it's more portable and if don't anticipate using the extra features offered on the higher end cameras.
What you're asking for is for someone else make a personal decision for you. You really have to weigh up the pros and cons yourself. I'd think twice about the extended warranty, it should be covered under consumer legislation (as should your K-50.)
Have you considered buying second hand?

Hi Pilo, Sorry about your problem, I had the same after 2 years with my K50, repaired twice and working fine. Now I did call Pentax USA and was told that the K70 is a different design for the aperture block. I also have a K3, a good camera and no problems so far after 5 years or so. In general, their "flagship" cameras are better.

The K70 has more advance options then the K3, but I would try to find out more about it like calling Pentax over there and look at reviews from owners on it. If you can confirm the K70 aperture design, then I would go with it.

I also have a K1, and between all my cameras, have never taken out an extended warranty. The K50 cost me $125.00 for repairs, didn't use Pentax.

Pentax Forum has detailed home repairs on the K50, might want to check it out. Also, the K50 should be fine in manual mode.

Anyway, do your research, take your time, and wish you the best.

Paolo

Sorry, no manual use for the K50 anymore Paolo, I throw it in the waste bin. I was really pissed off.
I’m an old Leica M analogue owner. I had three of them. Never had a single problem in 50 years.
Started digital with a Fuji F30 P&S to try, it was a good camera. Still have it…it’s a collector’s item now.
Then a Lumix G5, sold it after 3 months. Didn’t like it.
Then I looked for a DSLR, for something special. I remembered the fantastic old analogue Pentax cameras. So, I went for Pentax but… no luck as you know.
Jak, in Europe the official warranty period is 2 years, that’s it. The two extra years is a special promo from the Pentax dealer.
Thanks for the reactions anyway, I can read between the lines and I shall go for a K70, without an extra warranty period…
If it fails so quickly as the K 50, it will be a definitive goodbye Pentax.

Problem solved, found a Pentax dealer with a temporally action “5 years warranty” …

Okay Pilo, happy for you. I haven't seen that long of a warranty over here. I'm sure you will like the K70. Reason I use Pentax (goes back to film days), is that any lens ever built by Pentex will work on their latest cameras.

Once you get your K70, let us know how you like it.

Paolo

I'm also having the problem with dark pictures. My son can get it to work in manual mode but I need the auto..😊
I updated the firmware yesterday, formatted the sd card, did the dust cleaning and a few other menu items but it didn't help....I'm currently reading through the forums to see if it's worth getting fixed. My camera's about 3 years old. Thanks for any suggestions!

There is a guy in CA that fixes the K50 for your problem, http://www.pentaxcamerarepair.com/. I've used him and he stands behind his work. Took a couple of repairs, but has been working okay now for a few months.

Thank you! I'll check it out!

Here's a great how-to on how to fix camera:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ZZoTUQvwBI

I've followed the instructions today and it's working again. Previously the pictures were completely dark. I fixed it by switching the 'horse-shoe' part (aperture solenoid) with the one from my old k-x as I wasn't using it anyway since the LCD wasn't working anymore.

The guy who made the video says you can just sand off the horse-shoe part (aperture solenoid) and it should be working. I also found the part on eBay, refurbished for 40 bucks.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Pentax-K-30-K-50-Genuine-Aperture-Solenoid-Plunger-Part-...

Found this other how-to which goes in more detail on how to fix original solenoid:
https://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/151-pentax-k-30-k-50/340762-k-50-k-500-apert...

Apparently the filing / sanding off has to do with decreasing the magnetic force.