Aperture Solenoid Fail on K-50.

[PoscoBurrows]

Hi all.

I think, after a few weeks research I've decided that, quite possibly, my aperture Solenoid has failed.

From what I can gather it is well publicised in other forums.

I've seen various YouTube clips and I haven't got a chance of understanding most of what's needed.

I have a few questions :
Has anybody else had this problem?
Is there a recomended tech that would be able to sort it out?
Has anybody tried to go back to Pentax pointing out the camera isn't fit for purpose? I've had the camera about 4 years I think, but it's failed at just over 4000 exposures, which I don't think is a lot.

Any advice would be gratefully received.

[Smeggypants]

Welcome to the forum Posco

I can't personally help, but after 4,000 shots that's not good at all. Hopefully someon here can be of assistance.

[richandfleur]

Mine failed (K-30) and it was repaired at no cost by Johnson’s
It fell just within the 2 year warranty.

It can be fixed, but there is always a fear of has the same part been installed again?
Pentax took a massive hit in my impression of them with this issue. Real head in the sand stuff.
I was lucky but couldn’t help thinking of the others outside of their warranty.

I feel it should have been a voluntary free recall. You could try pushing them on it, as you might get somewhere? Good luck.

[PoscoBurrows]

Who are Johnsons?

Mine is well outside warranty now, just not well used.

I'm going to wait for a response from Pentax then look at Citizen advice.

Let's see what happens

[richandfleur]

Who are Johnsons?

Pentax UK Service Agents
http://www.johnsons-photopia.co.uk/Partners_1126.php

[K30]

I had this problem (allbeit aperture motor) out of warranty and they initially brushed me aside. I waited a year during which the net was plastered with similar reports. I wrote again to Johnsons pointing this out and credit where its due they sorted it for me.

[PoscoBurrows]

Thanks all, I will will what response I get in the next few days.

[buttsvanman]

I had same problem, out of warranty cost £200 for repair ripped off well and truly me thinks.