Konica Big Mini broken flex + AF problem

[bernard_L]

I have two Big Mini 201 with broken flex, from junk box. The part is available from a Chinese seller; Before I commit a (moderate) sum of money to buy the spare parts, I'd like to evaluate the chances of effective repair.

Why hesitate? As I understand, the flex is for communication with the back: display, mode, self-timer, and rewind. So, even in its absence, the camera should load film and shoot frames in default mode. Instead, it's dead. Maybe the µP is missing the dialogue with the back? or what?

Question: Does any one have information on the behavior of a Big Mini with broken flex?

Related question (to avoid opening a separate thread). Another (third) Big Mini BM302. Power-on OK. Wind-on film OK. But AF acquisition is erratic. Sometimes it just blinks (no AF). Indoors, outdoors, no matter what. Persistently. Power off, on. Then without any clear cause, it starts to work properly at far and near distances. Turn it off, and next time it has reverted to inoperative. Is that a bad contact somewhere inside? Or what?

 

[bernard_L]

Nobody? So I'll have to patch the broken cable under a binocular to find out, and if positive, order a ice new flex;

 

[ic-racer]

I had no idea what a "big mini" was. Something like a "jumbo shrip" or something? I found a picture of it on the internet. Seems to be an autofocus 35mm camera. I can't find any reference to 'broken flex' as there is no service manual available for the camera. Maybe post a picture of the damage.

Personally I like the Konica c35 which focuses with a rangefinder.

 

[bernard_L]

I can't find any reference to 'broken flex' as there is no service manual available for the camera. Maybe post a picture of the damage.

The flex replacement procedure is documented there:
https://www.reddit.com/r/AnalogComm...screen_not/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x
And below is what it looks like in person on my table. Patching the flex may be doable; I've done it for my Coolscan LS2000. But this one is a really tight fit, and might not even fit in with the extra thickness of 0.15mm wire, solder, and insulating tape. Pus, the plastic (kapton?) has become very brittle. So finally, bin. And spend time taking pics or printing in the lab.

As to camera preferences: there are many different types of cameras. Which one I prefer depends on the project and the mood. The best one is the one I have with me with film inside. And other people will of course have different preferences.