I think the SDM power contacts are just inside the body? Have you cleaned them too, or just those on the mount?

I have to disagree with your argument.

A manufacturing issue is an issue regardless of whether safety is involved. If you design and sell a product, it should be fit for purpose. If it clearly isn't I don't believe we should have to fight for our rights. The aperture block and SDM failures are too frequent to be anything other than design faults and there should be no argument over repairs.

In this instance, too many Pentax togs have suffered aperture block and /or SDM failure.

It should be a simple 'I'm the original owner. Here's the proof. I've used the equipment properly. Where do I send it to have it fixed foc?'. I've read too many instances of users being grateful that, say, SRS have taken up the case, etc. As said at the outset, the manufacturer should step up asap and just fix it.

End of rant!

If Ricoh had stepped up and stopped denying there was an issue* (ditto SDM) these actions wouldn't happen, and I'd like to think that a manufacturer taking responsibility for an issue would attract good press and more customers.

* I accept there were repairs under warrant for some, but the problem continues for many post-warranty. An inherent design fault is an inherent design fault and surely is the sole responsibility of the manufacturer, regardless of when it surfaces. Once it's discovered, the manufacturer should fix it regardless. Whirlpool and tumble dryers!

Wonder if at last someone will also address the SDM issue?

Bonjour et bienvenue!

PM sent

Thanks Vic. More fyi than anything else, but I have a "Panagor zoom slide duplicator", that magnifies from 1:1 to 2.5:1. T mount so can be used with various marques.

I've tried it with my K3, but fancy it'd work better with a K1 as it's originally designed for full frame. They go for around £20 on eBay so might be worth a try depending on what results you're getting with what you have.

I don't have the details to hand, but I understand a metal replacement gear is available to replace the plastic one that is most probably the cause of the problem.

Did you get sorted Vic?

Thanks Simon. Well worth knowing just in case.