Timeless, robust and reliable classics: the three Minolta X SLRs from the 80s
Based on my previous (repair) experiences with the Minolta X-700/500/300 (X-700/570/370) cameras with regard to preservation/problems/repair options, I would like to give a summary of the following recommendations/hints:
- The three X cameras are largely constructed in the same way and differ mainly in their features and the controlling electronics.
- The cameras are considered robust and reliable, but there are some weak points that should be taken into account.
- Two electrolytic capacitors can be installed in the X-700 and one each in the X-500 (570) and X-300 (370). These electrolytic capacitors can become defective and lose electrolyte, which can damage the electronics around them. That's why it's always advisable to check the condition of the capacitors concerned. These electrolytic capacitors can be replaced with new ones, which are available from electronics stores. Replacement is easy for the X-300 (370) and X-500 (570). A little more efforts are required with the X-700.
- Defective electrolytic capacitors can be noticeable when the LEDs in the viewfinder go out.
- The shutter can sometimes have malfunctions that block the camera. In some cases it can help to move the rear shutter curtain a tiny bit by hand.
- The shutter can also be adjusted after removing the base plate and turning setscrews.
- The image counter may display incorrect values. Sometimes the cause is a small plastic part that breaks after decades. This can be repaired with a little skill or a spare part can be taken from a donor camera.
- The three X cameras efficiently protect the internal parts against dust and dirt, but not against moisture, which can damage the electronics and mechanics. That's why a dirty Minolta X that has been kept dry can still work faultlessly. A camera that has been exposed to moisture has generally a higher risk of failure.
- If the Minolta X does not work or only works with errors even after inserting a fresh battery, the contacts in the battery compartment can be oxidized. Electronics cleaner is a good remedy. Acid that has leaked from batteries is more difficult to remove, the electronics behind can already be affected, as battery acid can be aggressive and spread.
- Dirt can accumulate behind the eyepiece and under the aperture simulator ring that runs around the lens bayonet. This can be, more or less, fixed relatively easily, but is only advisable if problems occur or the ring scratches and crunches when turning. Some dust in the optical system is normal.
- The electronics of the X-700/500/300 (700/570/370) are complex and integrated. This means that the majority of the circuit consists of ICs. Repairs are difficult here or might be not possible, but troubleshooting guides are available that can help.
- The price for Minolta X cameras on the used market is moderate. A replacement may be cheaper than attempting a repair (money/time).
Additional information
Recently published on PHOTRIO covering most of the topics mentioned above:
Have you just purchased a Minolta X-700? Do a Check & Clean first!
Since I'm currently working on a few Minolta X cameras and focusing on the Minolta X-700, I thought a "Check & Clean" tutorial might be useful for you 🙂 Today I was busy with this X-700. I had no idea if it worked. Anyway it was obvious that it was dirty. But otherwise? So let's take a...
www.photrio.com
Electrolytic capacitor replacement on a Minolta X-300s
Of the 13 Minolta X cameras that are waiting to be checked here, see https://www.photrio.com/forum/threads/interested-in-minolta-x-camera-repair-reports.202857/#post-2739628 I was able to get candidate 1/13, a Minolta X-300s back to work 🙂 Issues: - Camera cannot be wound up. - LEDs in the...
www.photrio.com
Minolta X-300 put back into service
An X-300 with some signs of wear and a dent on the side of the top cover, a bit dirty - a basement find, as the previous owner told me. The shutter is cocked, the LEDs in the viewfinder remain dark when the trigger is tapped, pressing the trigger does not release the shutter. Ok, let's see...
www.photrio.com
Minolta X-700 electronics: A closer look
I'd like to take a closer look at the X-700's electronics in the coming days. On the one hand, I would like to understand how the circuit basically works, and on the other hand, I am interested in details that can be seen on the flexible circuit board. It's always fascinating to me what...
www.photrio.com
Minolta X-700: Removing the mirror box and shutter
Today I would like to take a closer look at the mirror box and shutter of the X-700. To do this, the camera must be partially dismantled. It's a bit of work, but if you are familiar with a screwdriver and soldering iron, it can be done without any problems. Tutorial bei Gene Pate, Learn...
www.photrio.com
Recommended on the web:
MINMAN
A great source of information about Minolta manual focus film cameras maintained by PHOTRIO member @xkaes
Suaudeau.eu
Information about the Minolta system and repair instructions (shutter issues). The site is in French language and can be automatically translated by using Google Translate for Web.
The Rokkor Files
Introducing Minolta SLRs with manual focus and reviews of Minolta lenses
Fix Old Cameras
Videos on how to fix primarily mechanical problems, including Minolta X cameras.
Learn Camera Repair
Learn Camera Repair: Home
Online camera repair course, free tutorials, and the largest online library of free service manuals for photographic equipment. Learn Camera Repair is the place to learn to repair cameras!
learncamerarepair.com
Repair manuals for different cameras available including the Minolta X cameras. Also available: SPT Journal & Service Notes, The Camera Craftsman, which cover technical Minolta topics in depth.
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All information provided without guarantee and use at your own risk.
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