Minolta X-700 Shutter Problem

[Jack Fisher]

I acquired an X-700 beater that almost works.  The light metering is right on.  The shutter curtains release on demand.  Except the closing curtain follows the opening curtain without any delay.  So, there is no exposure at any speed setting.

I have not been able to find a service manual readily available on line.  I wonder if the 200uf/4v capacitor failing would cause this problem.
Any ideas or helps?
Thanks in advance!

Jack

[Dean Williams]

Hello Jack;

First, I'll say I haven't done this repair on the X700.  Regarding the Cap, though, there are two of them on this camera.  One is under the circuit board on top, one in the bottom, just under the cover.  
It would be a cheap enough thing just to try it, as you can get these caps for about a buck apiece.
One of these controls the shutter release, and I believe the other is tied to the meter circuit.  I talked to a friend of mine, (who is a repairman), a while back.  He said that when the cap goes, the shutter usually won't fire a all, but metering will still work.
Sorry I don't know more about this particular camera.  I would replace the caps and see what happens.  At least it won't make it any worse.

[Jack Fisher]

Thanks, Dean.  I thought I might replace the caps.  But was wondering exactly what retards the closing curtain.  ...guess it is worth a try.

Jack

[Dean Williams]

There should be a magnet for the second curtain release.  But, if it's not energised, (by the cap, maybe?), it makes sense that it would just follow the first curtain down.