Who can fix a lens?

[Pupator]

I bought a Minolta "Beer Can" from KEH a few months ago. It had been working fine but on a trip this weekend the zoom started to "stick" (so that I couldn't zoom in or out past certain lengths). I applied a bit of pressure to it (not much, at least I thought), and it unstuck, but now it's broken and doesn't zoom in or out at all.

Who should I contact to see if it can be fixed, and is it even worth it for a $150 lens?

*Edit - A replacement from KEH would be $225

[claudermilk]

Minolta? KEH? :dunno That's where I'd start.

[Seymore]

You may also consider calling camera stores in your area and see if they know of anyone (usually small private parties) who does lenses cleaning/repair. Best to check locally for this before looking nationally...

But as was mentioned, you may also contact KEH, let them know what happened with the lens and see if they will work with you to get you a replacement.



Good luck...

[ziggy53]

I agree it would be best to contact KEH first and see if you can work with them.

If it's what I think that happened, a small screw has come loose (the one that drives the zoom, typically part of what is called the "zoom cam"). If the threads are not stripped then it's simple to repair as long as the screw has not entered the cavity of the lens.

If the screw has stripped or if the screw has drodded inside the lens, it gets more complicated (potentially expensive).

[Pupator]

I agree it would be best to contact KEH first and see if you can work with them.


Per everyone's advice - I contacted KEH. They warranty their used equipment for 60 days - I'm on day 61. Bill at KEH said "I'm not going to sweat it over a day, send it in and we'll take care of it."

I'll let you know how this turns out but for now I'm really pleased. :barb

[Seymore]

Bill at KEH said "I'm not going to sweat it over a day, send it in and we'll take care of it."
:clap

[Scott_Quier]

Bill at KEH said "I'm not going to sweat it over a day, send it in and we'll take care of it.":barb
That's really stand-up of them. Good on them.!

[claudermilk]

I'd honestly expect no less of KEH, even if they are technically within their rights to say, so sorry, one day too late. Good for them! :thumb Once again proving that it's a pretty safe bet buying used gear from them.