womble wrote:
I don't understand why it is scary. Virtually all 35 year old cameras need their seals and buffer foam etc. renewed if it hasn't been done already. The LX is only different in that rather than just manifesting itself in black muck all over the insides of the camera, it also affects the mirror. The LX's weather and dust seals, usually regarded as a plus point, have to be replaced if one opens the camera up for a service which is why they are relatively expensive to CLA. One has three choices:

1. Buy an LX which has been serviced and pay a premium.
2. Buy an LX which needs a service, negotiate a discount and send it to Robin or Eric. Once it comes back you'll be good to go for another 35 years.
3. Buy a less sophisticated model. It'll still need a CLA. The KX is very popular but bigger and chunkier, the MX is a minature marvel, the Super A has more automation...

Given you mentioned KEH, I assume you are stateside? I would have negotiated a discount and sent it to Eric. He is the world's best (film) Pentax repair/service person and you could have been 100% confident of having a lovely working LX. Several times I have bought a cheap "spares or repairs" body (e.g. my ESII) and just sent it straight to him. Result? A beautiful working camera...

Best wishes, Kris.

johnriley wrote:
Maybe a general service is due then?

johnriley wrote:
Maybe it's too cold for the camera and that's all that's wrong. I have a feeling they are rated to operate from 0C to 50C, and the lubricants probably haven't been replaced for many years. Is it OK when warmed up?

Mechanical cameras used to be sent to be "winterised" when sub zero climes were to be visited. This involved replacing all the lubricants with a different grade.