Pentax ME Super Light Meter Adjustment
Tools
These are some common tools used to work on this device. You might not need every tool for every procedure.
Supplies
- Open cell foam, self-adhesive, 1.5 mm thick: For light seals and mirror bumpers
- Isopropyl alcohol: General cleaning
- Cotton buds: General cleaning
- Contact cement: Adhesive for attaching leatherette
- Molybdenum grease: Lubrication for mechanical latching points
Common Problems
The most common failures for the Pentax ME Super are a stuck reflex mirror or an advance lever that winds continuously (aka, "infinite wind"). Both have the same root cause, which are degraded rubber dampers in the mirror box mechanism. The failure can usually be repaired by cleaning out the old material (see the Mirror Box Disassembly guide)
Inoperable meters are also common. This is usually caused by corroded battery contacts or internal wiring, which is repairable. Sometimes the light meter cell can fail, which requires a replacement part.
Recommended Service
If you are already performing significant disassembly of the camera for a repair, consider doing a more complete overhaul of the camera to reduce the chance of future issues. The following service will address the most common failure points of the ME Super.
- Mirror box mechanism: Remove old degraded rubber bumpers and clean all affected components.
- Shutter block: Remove old degraded rubber bumpers and clean curtain pivots.
- Viewfinder: Clean and replace old foam light/dust seals.
- Light seals: Remove and replace old foam light/dust seals.
Troubleshooting
See the Pentax ME Super Troubleshooting page.