T-70 Issues

<p>For spring break, I took the family on a week long cruise. I decided to bring along my Canon T-70, 28mm f2.8, 50mm f1.4, 100mm f2.8 and 299T flash. I loaded up with a lot of film, and had a lot of plans for taking photos. My plans didn't work out.</p>

<p>After being out about three days, I found myself with a malfunctioning T-70. The camera can not be adjusted into different prgram modes, or adjusted in any way. For example, I can't check the battery or check the film ISO. Additionally, the camera will not turn off. It is currently stuck on program mode, and I've been turning it off by opening the battery compartment with the switch in the off position. Once this is done, the camera will remain off.</p>

<p>I believe that the main switch is broken in some way, and wondered if anyone thinks that this is an easy fix? I think that repairing this camera may cost more then it is worth, and I think I may need to look into a different camera.</p>

<p>Should I fix this camera, or save the money and just pick up a new T-70 body?</p>

<p>Should I try a new model, such as the T-90, as prices are at a low point? Coming from the T-70, the T-90 will be an easy transition, as it is a T90 light. (Many similar program options, but more basic.)</p>

<p>What about an F1N or A1? Both are great cameras.</p>

<p>Jeff</p>

<p>The T70 is a terrific camera and it's my favorite walking-around camera. There are a lot of them available on the second-hand market, and many have seen very little use. You can usually find a good one for less than $50 (which is incidentally one of the most ridiculous bargains in human history). The cost of an overhaul would be greater, and new parts are no longer available, so I'd just look for a replacement.</p>

<p>The other cameras you suggest are good alternatives. I like the F-1N myself. Most folks here suggest a T90 should be kept in constant use, like a roll a week. For myself, I don't shoot 35mm consistently enough to make that work. YMMV.</p>

<p>A replacement T-70 can be had pretty cheap, but if you can find a good working T-90 and are willing to pay a little more for it I'd personally go that route. I'm not sure how you identify T-90s without the shutter problem, I must have gotten lucky with mine because I don't use it that often but it always works for me (No EEEEE-Help). The T-90 feels a lot better in hand and is much better laid out than the T-70 in my opinion. A little bigger and heavier but a swell camera nonetheless.</p>

<p>Jeff,<br />The T70 is pretty easy to take apart to get at the on/off slider switch contacts.All you need is a jewelers type phillips head screw driver to remove the external panels.The top and front panel are held on with external screws that are easy to find and remove.No need to unsolder anything to do a quick cleaning.With a little logic you can figure it out.The only part that you need to carefully understand on reassembly is the back cover release slider and button assembly.I would give it a try because the camera is worthless otherwise.I use electrical contact cleaner on the contacts applied with a Q Tip applicator (never a pencil erasor).When you look at the switch contacts you will quickly understand what needs to be cleaned.<br />The T70 is a fantastic little gem and worth picking up another one if you are not confident to try a repair on the one you own now.I own 3 and many times grab one of them instead of my F1N's or T90 because they do such a great job and are so compact and light.As others have said the T70 is a greatly misunderstood and underappreciated camera.I'd take one over anything in the A Series anyday.</p>

<p>Dave, Chris, and Douglas,</p>

<p>Thanks for the good advice. I have always liked the T-70. In 25 years, this is the only time it has ever failed me. I think I'll try to fix my current T-70 first. If I'm not successful, I'll probably pick up another T-70. I've always wanted a T-90, but I worry about the weight and the shutter issues. I use my T-70 regularly, but it still sits with film in it from time to time. I fear getting a T-90 only to not use it enough, and then face the shutter problems. I guess I need to think about this some more.</p>

<p>Thanks again,</p>

<p>Jeff</p>