I should have guessed what the responses would be like!

Although Algernon's might be the way to go.

I use a Manfrotto tripod that enables me to reverse the centre column for work close to the ground, but of course that means the camera is upside down.

The auto rotate facility in the camera takes care of the image, but not the controls layout.

I can use a ball-head to mount the camera at 90 degrees to the column, into portrait mode, but anyone know of a way to turn the camera body 180 degrees so it's low to the ground but correctly oriented in landscape mode?

I'm thinking a C shaped bracket of some sort that would offset the camera to one side of the centre column.

I could also use FluCard etc to 'remote view' the rotated image and enable some control over the body, but would prefer 'hands on',

From your post you've clearly had your K7 a while, and probably know your way around it, but any chance you've inadvertently set something like mirror lock up?

I always favour a full factory re-set of electronic devices if they suddenly display the arrival of gremlins. Sorted me out a few times and at least afterwards you'll know it wasn't you!

The need to adjust for front or back focus is NOT a quality control issue, simply a function of mass production. Camera bodies and lenses are made within certain tolerances. When you combine a body and a lens you're as likely to get back or front focus as not. Sometimes the resulting effect will be very obvious, sometimes not.

Perhaps what Pentax should do is make the likely need for adjustment more obvious and easier, as many new togs, or togs not familiar with DSLRs, simply won't know about the need to do it, or how.

Could the tolerances be made tighter by adjustment before leaving the factory? Of course. But this will result in more expensive bodies and lenses.

Probably worth confirming that the battery wasn't put in upside down per Jaks post, Or, and I have no idea if this is possible, can the camera be set to only get power from the grip even though a battery is inserted in the body? If so, was the grip fitted?

If it appears that the buyer knows what they're doing, then just get the camera sent back and give the buyer a refund. Standard eBay process. You'll have to pay return p&p probably but I presume eBay refunds selling fees?

Seen this? https://www.pentaxuser.com/forum/topic/pentax-k-3--sigma-150-500mm-and-others-fo...

I've seen a few posts referring to problems with this lens, which have sometimes been down to the fact that it won't work unless opened fully. Any chance that's the problem here? 😚

Yes!

Have you tried the info button? Cycles through LCD view(s) with each press.

Yes, it's CA, but not from the review you referred to as far as I can see, which is what this threads about isn't it? If not, I've missed the point.

CA is a fact of photography regardless of marque, and easily addressed in pp.