Argus/Cosina STL 1000

[pompiere]

I bought this camera at the Goodwill store for $10. Everything seems to work okay, but the self timer lever just flops back and forth. I took the bottom off to see what I could and I found that there is a pin missing that connects the self timer lever to the timing mechanism. If I wind the timer manually, it functions fine, it just isn't connected to the lever on the front of the camera. Does anyone have a picture that would show what kind of pin or screw goes in there?

Also, is it possible to calibrate the light meter? It could also be dirty contacts, because the meter is way off and doesn't seem consistent.

[aceroadholder]

The STL100 seems to be prone this meter problem. Mine was only two years old when this problem surfaced.

Quite frankly, I'd remove the battery and go with a hand held meter or use the sunny-16 rule... my recollection is that the meter wasn't very good in low light situations to start with.

The rest of the camera is quite functional and gives good service. The compact f1.8 50mm Argus/Cosina M42 mount lens is a very good piece of glass. I use it often on my other cameras. If your camera has this lens, it was well worth the $10 just for the lens.

If your really must have the meter, bite the bullet and send it (and about $100) to a repair shop for overhaul. The contacts require disassembly of the camera to get at them... you need a trained repairman to get it done.

Orlin in SC/USA