I have a Pentax ZX-7 camera that takes awesome pictures. About a year ago is the last time I was able to take pictures though, as now the camera is not working. I can turn the camera on and the modes light up and acts as if it'll work, however within seconds, the low battery warning starts to blink and the flash won't come on (therefore not allowing the shutter to release). I have changed the batteries three times with new batteries each time; there is a new roll of film in the camera and it'll let me play around with the settings. Any ideas as to what is wrong or how I can fix it?

zdenek vajdak

• 206 Answers
• Posted on Sep 03, 2007

SOURCE: Pentax zx-50 Shutter Problems?

I really think this is the classic zx - 50 shutter motor problem : small motor on the side of the mirror box is not cocking the shutter . This is very repairable but unfortunately it requires fair amount stripping down of the camera to get to the fault and so you will have to take it in for repairs.

SOURCE: Mirror locked up

Older cameras like this are notorious for locking up after not being used for quite some time. Though, it is an easy fix, it does require some steady hands and a good memory of where everything was after you're taken it out or apart. The best solution for this is, once you've taken it apart and have access to the mirror, is to have a q-tip with a little vasoline on the tip, apply a thin (very thin) layer along all springs and joints surround the mirror and around the edges of the mirror opening, while avoiding getting any vasoline on the mirror itself. I've worked with cameras all my life and have worked at camera shops, and what I've explained here is exactly what a camera repair place would do. But, if you don't feel comfortable with small parts and tiny screws, a camera shop will gladly fix it for you, and not at a bad price.
So, Good luck! Hope this helps. I hope you're out taking photos soon!
Olivia~*

SOURCE: film won't advance

Pentax ME Super was one of my favorite camera, small and clean shutter release. But it has been about 25 years since it was manufactured. They happen to use rubber break within shutter unit and as any rubbers, it started to deteriorate and melt between the shutter-blades. This prevents the complete cycle of the shutter and jams the winding. You may be able to unjam the winding but eventually you have to overhaul the shutter unit. Overhaul charge is around $100 in US repair market. -James

SOURCE: can the shutter curtain be replaced on a Pentax

It can be replaced only by a trained service technician. Check the Pentax website for a service center near you.

SOURCE: pentax me super can not advance the film advance

all that was wrong with mine- THANK GOD is that the shutter was a little sticky! so i fixed it myself! yeah for me!

i thought it was really broken! but thanks to fixya.com i can actually FIX things instead of BREAKING them more! hahaha

thanks- this site is a LIFE SAVER!