Pentax K2 DMD problem

Hello group,

I have recently aquired a Pentax K2 DMD. It seems fine overall and is more in 'working' condition than not, but, changing the film speed is a right struggle, it is so stiff I can't seem to move the ring past 32 ASA. Are these cameras known to be difficult with age and is there anywhere anyone would recommend for a service?

Thanks to anyone who can offer advice.

spbatt

Hi Again,
I will have a look at my K2 tonight and try to see what you mean. When I first got the K2, I found the ASA dial a real swine until I got a brochure to find out how to do it properly. The Pentax USA site has one avail for download if you need it. I must admit that although I have always found the Pentax's to be the most user friendly, the K2 was a litt;e bit of an exception and I found it awkward until I got used to it. It seemed to be the only one which didn't folow the usual Pentax layout. If anything it seems more like any Oly! If you still need an address for a service, I can post a couple.

Regards
Kim

Thanks Kim, I actually have a manual for the K2 but it isn't helping me any - I am either too dim or the camera needs a good clean.

Regards,
spbatt

Hi,
The ASA ring on my K2 is very stiff although there isn't a noticeable difference between the extremes. What is very apparent, is that it is almost impossible to adjust the ASA unless the compensation setting is at zero. The trouble is as soon as you try to adjust the ASA it seems to want to adjust the compensation instead. You almost need 3 hands! As I said before, it is not the most user friendly of the K - but it is a lovely camera. Mines a lovely black one but I wish I could aquire a DMD.

Kim

I too had problems until I went back and read the manual, which is very clear that the compensation must be at zero. If you do that, it is fine, but means that you can only move it by one step at a time, then set the compensation back to zero. All you need is patience!
regards

Most of the K2 and K2DMD have the same problems because of the hardening of the grease. You can easely disintegrate mount and ASA selector and clean them by removing bolts of the mount. But please do it at your oun lisk!

Thanks Osamu, I feel brave enough to attempt that - after all, how hard can it be (famous last words... !)? I tried the being 'patient' method but with no luck.

Expect to see a Pentax K2 for spares or repair on an Ebay site near you!

Regards
spbatt

I am so glad I came to this site, reading the infos in the replies helped me finaly set my speed, thank you very much guys!
I bought this mint condition a few years ago and could never get the hang of it cos I dont use the k2 so often. I still use my good old Pentax k1000.
Hope those who havent got it will soon!
I am all excited here