Question about older Kiev 6C

I recently purchased a Kiev 6C from a camera show and have some questions to ask. It came with a Vega 90 2.8 lens. The wind mechanism was broken and had various other problems at purchase which I seemed to have fixed. I have heard that the wind in Pentacon's are quite troublesome, is it similar for the Kiev? I also dislike the focus screen, it is very bright in the center microprism and dim elsewhere, any other options beyond having another cut from ground glass? It also came with cloth shutters, it that standard or has this camera likely been reworked in the past? I would also like to know exactly what battery fits the meter prism, and voltage. I put two 3V batteries in there and got it to read, however they drained after leaving in two days with it switched off and the lens cap on. Is correct exposure when one character shifts to the other, (or both on)?

Finally, what is a good source for new/used russian lenses. Anyone tried Kalimar from Czechoslavakia and is it safe?

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Thank you for any help in this manner

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Tedd

Since I don't have a Kiev myself, I can only answer your last question: You may purchase any Kiev lenses + accessories through Brenner-foto (this is where I buy most of my films etc.).

They also offer a fixed price repair-service (currently DM 120.00 = $ 75.00). A new Mir 3,5/65mm lens is DM 500.00 ($ 300.00).

Look up http://www.brenner-foto.de

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Best regards,

Uli Volp.

For batteries and lenses, try: Kiev USA (http://members.aol.com/kievrpt/index.htm).

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The cloth shutter is orginal.

PS:

the correct exposure is when BOTH LEDs are lit.