How To Repair & Clean A Panasonic Lumix ZS & TZ Model Leica Lens Units
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- Опубликовано: 17 окт 2024
- This video will show you how to disassemble & reassemble Panasonic Lumix Lens Units for a ZS3, ZS4, ZS5, ZS6, ZS7, TZ7, TZ8, TZ9, TZ10 and possibly other Lumix cameras. This video does not show you how to determine what may be wrong with your camera lens. You can see how to disassemble and then reassemble the camera by watching this video: • Repair A Panasonic Lum...
I had this camera for 5 years and was very happy with it , but one day...no focus at all !
I heard all stories from smart ass "expert -repairers" here in Greece : from re-programming, to replacing lenses (70 euros) , replacing the electronics (more than 100 eur)...etc... and then I found your video here !
GOD BLESS YOU , my friend Robert , and all the rest of nice people who spend their valuable time in order to show and explain to the rest of us here how to fix it !
Thank you so much, Robert. There is no way I would have got that lense mechanism back together without this video, it took me several hours and no screws left over.
Great job! And I'm glad the video helped you out.
Awesome video! Thank you a million times! I had already given up my TZ10 because it had a big scratch on the front lens. Your videos helped greatly to replace the whole lens unit and to clean it up!
My ZS6 had developed a long irregular slightly dark area on photos and I suspected it was just dust in the lenses somewhere. Turns out it was a piece of fiber on the surface of the CCD. I went ahead and took the rest of the lens assembly apart and found dust on every lens surface along with what looked like oil from fingers. I followed the video carefully from beginning to end and everything worked perfectly when I was finished. Could never have done it without this great video - many thanks. Another thing I've learned from this exercise: don't carry around your camera in a pocket. Dust from tissues and fibers from the pocket WILL find their way into the lens assembly eventually. Now to find a suitable case to carry the camera in.
Good job getting your camera lens cleaned. I'm glad the video helped you out. And, great point on using a carrying case!
Robert,
Wow,,,thanks so much for this. You saved me having to buy a new camera. My ZS7 had a tiny amount of dirt on one of the internal lens, which was showing up big right in the center of photos, and after following your instructions for taking the camera apart, and then this one on cleaning, it is back to taking exquisite pictures. I've been happy with this camera for so many years, and didn't really want to buy another one or pay panasonic $$$ to clean it. Although, I was a bit nervous, looking at all the parts and screws when it was taken apart, I wondered how hard it would be to put it all back together, but your instructions were clear and accurate. Thank you.
Awesome! I'm glad the video helped you out. It's hard to give up a camera that you like using because of dust on the lens. And, not to mention the big money to pay someone else to repair or clean it for you. I'm glad you were able to do it all yourself.
Hello Robert, just followed your Instructions, now everything is fine again! Thank you very much uploading this tutorial, it really helped me out and saved my old cam from beeing repared for a load of money or ending up as electronic waste! Thanks a lot!!!
Hi Daniel. That's great! I'm glad the video helped you out.
Best instructional videos I have seen about anything. I followed easily and serviced successfully my Lumix DSC-ZS7 which had developed dark spots in the picture.
Just what I needed for a little used TZ7 with a blob in the middle of the picture. I was pleased that you showed how to put it back together!
Your instructional videos are the best I've ever seen on RUclips. Thank you so much for posting them.
Hi Robert, thanks for this great video. I have a ZS19 which showed signs of having a jammed zoom mechanism. With a few minor differences, your video got me to the where I was able to remove the lens assembly, detach the zoom motor and manually free up the lens. I should have stopped there but I decided to pull the back off of the lens unit to see if there was any cleaning needed. Big mistake. The lens unit is very different from the other Lumix models and elsewhere on RUclips. It has a number of plastic tongues fixed to the rear cover that fit down into the lens assembly. Once you lift the rear cover off the lens mechanism, parts seem to shift, making it impossible to reseat the cover . It looks like I may be able to get it back together if I can detach the sensor from the rear cover and put that into the lens and then attach the cover. The troublesome tongues appear to be part of the sensor. But the immediate problem is that the sensor is held in place by 3 very small, what appear to be star drive screws. Can you provide any advice on how to get the lens back together. and what tool I need to detach the sensor (if this is necessary). Thanks!
Hi John,
I know exactly what you're talking about. I have a ZS19 that I had disassembled the lens unit on a few months ago, but I still haven't been able to figure out the correct procedure...yet...on how to get everything re-aligned correctly.I will tear it down again and then start from scratch. If I get it figured out I will sure pass on the info to you so that you can try it on your camera. Good luck with it! - Bob
Robert Hosea
Bob, thanks very much for your quick response. I'm looking forward to anything you can discover on how to resolve this. Let me know if there is any more info I can provide from my end.
Wow - brilliant - I've been working with an inferior camera to my TZ8 because I just couldn't afford to replace mine - there's a big "smudge" on the lens of the TZ8 and I used it for taking photographs for my online store. I just decided - after several months - that I need to see how much a new lens is because the colour on the new one is no one near "right" when I take pictures and my phone camera, although far superior to this new one (how crazy is that?!) still has trouble sometimes. Very frustrating - Just found a lens for the TZ8 is only 25 to 30 quid and then I found you ! Wish I'd have thought of looking earlier...thank you so much for this. You, Mr Hosea, are a complete life-saver. Samantha @ Rivey's Space.
Thank you very much Samantha! I'm glad the videos were helpfu to you. And I hope your TZ8 is up and running for you again.
Just never seemed to get around to it so I just commandeered my 17 year old lad to do it ... it's all up and running perfectly - just wanted to say thank you again. Business can run smooth again at last - yay! Samantha @ Rivey's Space.
Thanks so much for this clear and detailed video. I dropped my ZS7 and had the dreaded Zoom Error. Upon disassembly, I found that the plastic ring that guides the metal pins in the lens had broken. I was lucky enough to find a replacement on Ebay and with the help of your video, I was able to properly reassemble the lens unit and get my cameras working again!!
Hey, that's great ncbenr! Excellent job in repairing your camera. I'm glad the video was helpful to you.
best explanation on the subject. Note; you will need a very good light source and loop to see tiny parts. Can air is best for blowing out dust. Q tips can leave fibers behind. Don't rub alot on the lenses, some are plastic. Expect 1-2 hrs to do this the first time. Take careful notes and mark parts location during dis-assembly. MAKE alignment marks of your own prior to taking the lens assembly apart. Do it slowly so everything does not just fall apart. A fine red marker or something..Again, detailed notes are important here. The thin sleeve in the lens assembly is fragile! Easy does it. No force should be used in re- assembly. Plastic parts are generally self-lubricating too. Inspect gears and grooves for wear. Parts need to be clean when assembled. Wash hands and wear gloves if possible. Gently test assembly by rotating drive gear prior to placing the end cap on lens assembly and make sure everything is exactly placed as you took it apart, otherwise the lens will jam when you turn it back on. Try this with a junk camera first if possible. Ribbons disconnect by lifting the black portion of the clip and gently extracting the ribbon. Screw drivers have to fit well as a fair amount of torque is needed to remove the screws. Good luck. Fun and interesting to see how these are made. Thanks for the video.
Thanks Robert saved me a very expensive repair job. Your instructions are easy to follow for my DMC-TZ10.
That's great Gary! I'm glad it helped out and you were able to get your TZ10 going.
Hi Robert. My ZS1 had a dust issue so I followed your instructional video and thanks to your well detailed and professional instructions I was able to fix my Camera. The ZS1 lens is identical to the one you were using. I was quoted over $100 to have my camera repaired. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
Sir, you helped me salvage a ZS5 that was pristine except for a moldy lens. I was able to swap in the lens from a non working ZS5 thanks to you and this video.
Hey that's excellent! Great job on your repair. And I'm glad the video helped you out.
Robert,
Thanks very much for ZS and TZ lens unit video.
I have just followed your instructions to successfully clean off dust on the sensor and in the lens unit of a ZS5 we no longer used because of the black marks on the images. The clarity of your instruction has enabled it to become a functioning camera again, so thank you very very much.
I also have a four or five year-old Lumix DMC-TZ30, which I think is sold as a ZS20 in the US. It is not working in that the lens unit is not extending, the lens cover is only half-shut and a "System Error (Zoom)" message appears on the screen. I did disassemble the camera but found that the lens unit is different to the lens unit of my ZS5, which is the same unit you used in your video. I could manually make the TZ30 lens unit extend and retract, but it seemed to take more force than I think should be needed and I could not get the lens cover to fully close. The lens unit looked fairly clean though.
Do you know if the lens units in later Lumix cameras in the TS and TZ range can be taken apart and cleaned? I noticed in your comments to others that you were thinking of repairing a ZS19.
Any advice you can give on the later Lumix ZS and TZ lense units would be greatly appreciated. No matter what, you have already helped me a great deal with your lens unit video and I do thank you for your help.
Kind Regards
Lindsay Dickson
I have worked on the lens unit for a ZS19 one time, and it was very tough to do. It's a lot different from the earlier versions. Unfortunately I didn't make a video for it though. It may be possible that your camera lens unit just has some dust or dirt inside that is causing it to stick and the motor just isn't strong enough to extend it. A half-shut lens cover is usually a sign of dirt or sand being inside. I'm sorry I can't be more help on for you Lindsay. Feel free to contact me though if you decide to disassemble the lens unit and I'll try to help out in any way I can. -Bob
Robert Hosea Bob,
Thanks very much for your reply. If a ZS 19 lens was tough for you then my TZ30 lens might be a bit too hard for me without some step-by-step instructions. I have not been able to find any disassembly instructions or videos for the later lense on the internet. Thank you for your kind offer of help. I will let you know if I do tackle it.
I mention again though how pleased I am to have the ZS5 working again. I found reassembling the lense hard. You have a very good manner in explaining things and I needed to know about the reference marks in order to line things up properly.
Kind Regards
Lindsay Dickson
Thank you Lindsay. I'm really glad the video helped you out on your ZS5. And if I ever come across any information at all about working on a TZ30, I'll sure pass it on to you. -Bob
Just what I needed. My camera has been sitting for a year with an out of focus lens. This should do the trick. Thanks for posting!
THANK YOU SO SO MUCH ! For this video. I have my lumix already 8yrs and its great, besides the fact i got already twice in vacation so much sand/hair in the lens which was seen on all my pics. Here i am again, using your outstanding very well explained video again to fix my cam. Thank you so much again to help me and others!!!
Great job at clearly explaining and filming each step of the way. Very cool that you know so much about lens assemblies and were willing to take the time to share your knowledge.
Thank you very much Stegmutt! I hope the video helped you out in some way.
Superbly done. But what do I need to clean and lube while in there? I would think the spiral grooves that the guide pins ride in would need to be very clean to avoid the lens getting stuck, but there is no mention of cleaning them. Also, the plastic gears appear to be a problem area, attracting dirt on the lube. So these should be inspected, cleaned and lubed with lithium grease? Any other things to do while disassembled?
Hi Robert. Yes, it is a good idea to clean the grooves and pins. I just forgot to mention that I guess. I highly recommend that you do not use any form of grease on the grooves and pins of the lens unit. I've never come across any lens unit that had any form of lubricant in the grooves. Any lubricant would become a dust and dirt collector . Beyond that, you should be good with just doing what is shown in the video. Good luck with it Robert.
Thank you very much, Robert, your video helped me to repair my camera, could not have done it without your video
Hey that's great Bernie! I'm glad you were able to get it repaired.
Thanks Robert, I love my TZ7, but it was getting very dirty inside the lens. I followed your instructions, and now it is like new! I appreciate the extra time you spend on reassembly, as this is so critical. Great Job!
You're welcome Robert. The TZ7 is a great camera. I'm glad you were able to get your lens cleaned up!
This is probably the best video i have found on this topic. Thanks for sharing your knowledge !
Very impressive. This is just hat I am looking forward to. An appealing challenge. Object to be dismantled and cleaned: Lumix TZ10. Many years of rough use but still working quite well. Specks of dust, etc. abound. The screen on the back shows glossy and matt areas but I should think this does not matter for taking pictures. So, if not an issue I would keep it (although replacements seem to be available). Front protective cover acts just as you say, it opens, but not quite. Could it be that the lens has become pitted from the inside or is that just the appearance of remnants of extreme humidity, like lots of tiny tiny stains of condensation. Pictures appear OK but are no longer of the same quality and not as sharp (just softer) as those of my new TZ70. I use the TZ10 a lot around Japan where it gets hot and very humid, and I always shove it into the pocket wherever I go. So wit may be exposed to an extra whammy of body-related humidity which might also explain the peculiar "discoloring" of the screen at the back. I like DIY challenges of this kind and want to continue to use the camera as much as possible. (Also, my son wants it.)
Robert, if you have any advice to give related to above I'd very much appreciate it. I realize that the TZ0 may be different in some regard from the camera you are directly discussing but that shall be my risk.
Anyway, many thanks for putting together such a good show for all those who can appreciate this sort of work. All the best also with your marvelous photography. Nick.
Hi Kai.
Yes, DIY challenges are fun! I love them too.
The glossy/matted areas are most likely just on the LCD screen itself. I do the same thing with shoving the camera in my pocket while I'm hiking, and it does do a lot of wear and tear on the LCD display screen. Is there possibly a screen protector already on the screen that may be showing the wear that you are talking about? Just a thought.
The lens protector problem is most likely caused from dust or grit on the inside of the lens tube. That's really common in moist or high humidity situations. I run into that a lot. Unfortunately you will have to tear the lens unit down completely to clean it 100%.
The spots on the lens are probably condensation spots. I've never seen any physical pitting or scratching on the inside of lens units, except where I did it by accident while working on it. I have dropped cameras (unfortunately many, many times!) with the lens unit completely extended, into both snow, and also water, where just the very front of the main lens got wet, and I would wipe it off right away thinking I just got lucky that it didn't get wetter. But, after shutting the camera down and then turning it back on a while later, I would find a halo around the edge of the picture from humidity building up inside. Eventually the halo effect would disappear, but it would leave some staining behind on the inside of the lens and I would have to open the lens unit up to clean it. So, it's possible that in addition to the spots that you already see on yours, that there is also a thin film built up on the entire lens inside. And that could cause the problem with the pictures not being as clear. You should also check the CCD and clean it too if it needs it. I've had more "stuff" show up on the CCD of my ZS10 than on the lens.
Good luck with your cleaning project Kai. Give me a shout if you have any other questions.
-Bob
I know it is an older video but THANKS. Something spilled on my old camera and I was going to throw it away but with your video I was able to disassemble, clean the lenses and the lens cover and most importantly re-assemble correctly - works like brand new
Hey that's great Greg! I'm glad the video helped you out.
Well, I picked up a ZS7 on ebay "for parts / repair" and it turns out the lens was full of sand. I think ksomeone took it to the beach shortly after they bought it and literally dropped it in the sand. It was that bad. But having watched your video now literally more times that I've watched The Godfather (which is a lot of times), I was successfull in fixing the lens and getting it working before the power flat cable going to the focus motor burned out (as you showed in another video how to fix). The one issue I had was in removing the anti-shake magnetic piece. I managed to somewhat mangle the litttle plastic tab that goes over the pin you have to set back. So I think I was able to strenthen it back in place with a drop of cyanoacrylate that I let harden overnight. That would be one caution you could think about adding to your video -- to be real careful when pushing that pin out so as not to damage that plastic tab in the process. So thanks again for the exelent videos, this being a great one!
Very nicely done Robert, well explained and very clearly filmed. I fixed my old Lumix with that lens a year or so ago with some help from Graham Houghton's video, yours goes further I think. I'm currently have a go at the ZS19 lens (TZ30 in UK), far more fiddly, I nearly got it back together but a couple of the components got stuck and didn't survive the untangling! I look forward to your successful video!
Thanks very much Steve! And good luck with your ZS19. I hope you're able to get something figured out on it. I currently have a ZS19 torn apart on my bench that I'm "still" working on. Hopefully it won't be too long before I have a video for it.
Thanks Robert for this amazing disassembly. I was able to get my DMC-ZS5 lens disassembled just to learn that one of the springs of the protective cover was missing. Any advice on where to find a replacement?
Your video was really helpful for disassembling my ZS3 lens. However, I'm stuck with cleaning the very outer lens element. I'm not sure if you've noticed, but that element appears to be made of two glass surfaces that were sandwiched together and injection moulded into the plastic part of the element. I can't see a way of separating them without irreversible damage. Fungus has grown between those glass surfaces. Any ideas welcome!
I have the same issue on my ZS7 if you found a work around for this matter let me know please
Robert. Thanks for your help. I now have an old favourite back in working condition.There's nothing more satisfying then fixing something for yourself.
Robert- Great video. It gave me confidence to open up my DMC-Z3 which was dead and replace the lithium battery.The camera now turns on and takes pictures but the display is only showing a white screen with occasional lines. I think the problem is the two ribbons from the display- a large and a small one. They are probably not seated correctly. Also, the large ribbon has the dark side facing up while the small one has the shiny side. I think that is how they were. Any advice would be appreciated.
Hi PeeAm. Both flat ribbons should have the shiny copper colored connections that are on the ends of each of them, facing up, before they are slid into the connectors. Also, check to make sure that each of them are slid into the connector as far as they will go before flipping the small flat tab back down to the locked position. There were a few occasions where the lcd display wouldn't work for me and I could see that one of the flat ribbons was at a slight angle after I had locked it in place. Usually it was the small one. I would just put a little pressure on the flat cable with my thumb and then straighten it out and it would work fine. I hope this helps!
Robert Hosea Thanks for your quick reply. I went back and tried sliding the LCD connector a few times and VOILA- SUCCESS ! The strange thing was that the shiny side did have to face down. Thanks to your guidance, one more camera saved from going into the rubbish heap.
PeeAm
Hey that's awesome PeeAm. Good job!!!
Thanks to your great video i was able to remove a lot of dirt and dust out of my girlfriends loved but messy tz10! I am now a hero.
Excellent Alex! I'm glad the video helped out. And thanks very much for the feedback!
Dear Robert, thank you very much for this wonderful instruction video. I have gotten an old DMC TZ10 unusable because of "System Error (O.I.S.) and came across your video in search for information where the image stabilizer would be. From your video now I know, and I wonder if you could tell me if this might be an error that dis- and reassembling the lens unit would put a stop the error message "?
Hi. Unfortunately it sounds as if there is more than just a problem with dust in this case. I would guess that it is an electrical issue with it. This video will get you inside the lens unit though to where you might be able to see what the problem is though, just in case it is something just preventing the IS to move.
@@Thebobfactor Thank you, anyway. And greetings from Germany :-)
@@HSVSystemfahrer You're welcome. 🙂
you have the patience of the Saints... This is an awesome video explanation of the camera lens removal... your diction is superb. now I will not balk at price to clean a camera
What is the best way to clean the pieces that comprise the outer-most lens cover and come together like elevator doors? Can that entire assembly be removed and each individual piece cleaned? I have acquired a TZ8 with very sticky movement during both power on and off, and believe that there is a large amount of some unknown residue clogging this part of the camera. Thanks for a great video, very clear and precise!
Unfortunately the best way to clean the lens cover is to remove it completely from the lens barrel. You will need to tear down the lens unit to where you have access to the inside of the section with the object lens and lens cover on it. There are two small screws inside that hold the lens cover on. Once you have removed it from the lens barrel it is easy to clean. Clean it with something that doesn't leave a residue, such as Windex. Good luck with it!
I don't suppose you have a video or know of one for a DMC TZ60, which is quite different to this and a lot more complex by the look of it, having taken it apart and got this far.
Thank you very much, Robert. I have a ZS7 which I'd taken down to the beach a few times and like many people I had debris inside the lens assembly and spots on my pictures. I followed your videos and now the camera and lens are nice and clean. I'm sure a professional would have charged about what I paid for the camera originally if not more. Great video!
Ellen Nielsen Hi Ellen. That's great that you were able to get the lens cleaned up! And I'm glad the video helped you out.
Robert, my sincere Thanks for posting these very informative and easy to understand videos. I have a DMC-ZS19 that has been an awesome camera, however a few weeks ago noticed a dark area appearing on my photos and it made me wonder if there was dust on my lens. I looked but couldn't see any but cleaned it anyway with a lens cloth. Looked through my view finder screen and there it was still. I will patiently follow your advise and really appreciate the kindness in providing this information. Best Regards, Rod Nelson Ogden, Utah USA-1
Hi Rod! You're sure welcome and I hope the video helps you get your camera working again at 100%. Please let me know how things work out for you.
Hi Robert, thank you for very useful and detailed videos. Unfortunately, video referred in the above @~1:04 -
"Repair Panasonic Lumix ZS6, ZS7, TZ9 and TZ10" is no longer on your channel.
Would it be possible to restore it? Need to clean sensor on ZS6. Thank you.
Hi Victor. Thanks for pointing that out. It's now available again. You can see it here: ruclips.net/video/o9O43EOkiKY/видео.html Good luck with your sensor cleaning. -Bob
Dear Robert, thank you for posting this. Do you have any idea whether the internal design of the ZS15 model is the same or nearly the same of the models that you name in the description? Thanks again.
Hi jem2017. I'm not familiar with the ZS15 at all, but I would think it might be closer to the ZS19 or ZS20 then the ZS6/ZS7.
Here are links to videos that I have for disassembling and reassembling the ZS19/ZS20:
ruclips.net/video/V38GBeRXkco/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/14bWqPADTcA/видео.html
Sorry I can't be more help.
-Bob
Hi Robert...thank you and congrats for the video, it's been a great help!
I have a DMC-TZ6 camera and unfortunately it got wet with salt water and some sand is found inside the lens unit...after this the camera continued to function with some zoom troubleshooting. I followed your video, open/closed the lens unit several times and although it works mechanically it continues giving me zoom system error. Will explain you briefly what happens when I turn on my camera.
The lens zooms out completely and it makes some effort at the end as if it would want to zoom out even more (in my opinion, is already in its max), then it closes completely, reopens and it gives zoom error. But the strange thing is that when I turn off the camera, the lens unit turns back in and comes out completely again when it is spent off.
I would like to know if possible, to get some advise from you to resolve this problem. I appreciate your help and thanks again....Angelo
Hi Angelo. It sounds like possibly the focus motor assembly may be having a problem moving the focus lens. I didn't show how to work on that particular motor in the video, but I'll try to explain how to do it. The motor is located on the outside of the lens assembly and is secured with one screw. The motor has a threaded shaft that has a small white plastic piece that rides up and down on the threads, and the threads and plastic piece are both located inside the lens unit. The white plastic piece that rides on the threads moves the spring loaded focus lens up and down. A lot of times the plastic piece will get dirty and it will not move easily on the threads. This can sometimes cause the error message that you see. To clean the threads try to hold a Q-tip or fine cloth on the threads while spinning the shaft with your fingers while holding the plastic piece in place. Don't use any oil on it (though I have had to do that in some cases), as that can cause dirt to collect on the shaft. The main thing to check for is that the white plastic piece moves very easily on the threads. Another thing to check is the focus lens unit itself, which moves up and down on a metal shaft. If it is dirty it may not move easily, which would cause the focus motor to stall, which could also cause the error message to be displayed. If it still doesn't work properly after making sure that those items are clean and move easily, then I would guess that there may be dirt or moisture inside the motor itself. Unfortunately you would need to get a replacement motor to fix that. I hope this helps out Angelo. Let me know what you find. -Bob
Hello Robert, thank you so much for your response, very kind of you.
Yesterday beofre I contacted you, as a last test check, I did take out the focus motor and cleaned a little bit the plastic piece's guide, but not the threaded shaft which I notice that there is a white grease. Will take out the motor again for a thorough cleanse and will replace the white grease.
In my opinion, I think the focus motor lens is ok because when I take out the white sensor, I see the small black plastic piece going up and down from the white sensor's working area.
I think the same white sensor works out ok because when it was out of its position after having turned off the camera, the focus lens would remain inside, opposite of what I told you in the previous message, that with the white sensor in place, the focus lens remained outside with camera spent off....so, I think the sensor "reads" the movement.
Thanks again...Angelo
Hi Robert, I have DMC-TZ30 that I dropped in a rock pool, although was in a camera case. The camera worked perfectly after the event but when I took the battery out and put it back in the camera won't turn on. I've charged the battery, lights indicating fully charged however, still won't turn on and no noise when switching on. I think it could be sand/dust in the lens - I'm going to follow your video, do you think this will help?
Hi Chris. I would bet it's moisture in the camera and not sand or dust in the lens unit. I had a camera do the same thing one time when it didn't get "wet" so to speak, but a small amount of water, maybe a few drops, did get inside. My camera still worked for a while, but eventually it quit working after moisture from the few drops of water worked it's way onto the circuit boards. I was able to get it going again by opening the camera body and removing the circuit boards and allowing them to dry completely. When it comes to electronics it sure doesn't take much moisture to make a camera completely stop working. I wouldn't think you would need to disassemble the lens unit unless you can see visual signs of moisture inside the lens unit. Good luck with your camera Chris. I hope you get it dried out and up and running again.
I've just fixed my TZ10 thanks to your very helpful guide. That pesky lens was really fiddly, but eventually I did it. Thank you.
Great video. Just wondered if you could give me so e advice please. My Lumix TZ7 was dropped. The lens wouldn't work at first, but then started to work, however it would get stuck half way resulting in a message asking me to turn off the camera. It now makes repeated clicking noises before telling me to switch off the camera. The lens tries to move. Occasionally it will work ok but this is not very often. I have been told a repair would cost too much as the camera is 5 years old. There is no apparent damage on the outside of the camera and on the rare occasion when it works it takes a perfect picture. Have you any idea what the problem could be? Thanks.
Hi Helen. A friend of mine dropped his new ZS10 camera right after he got it and it started doing the exact same thing. He would have to turn it on and off repeatedly to get it to randomly work, When it did finally work, it would work one time and then completely stop working again. The problem was that the lens would not extended completely due to an incredibly small dent in the outer lens housing. I was able to disassemble the lens and remove the dent. My guess would be that one of the metal coverings, either the outside or one of the inside, on the lens unit has a small dent or one of them is slightly out-of-round now. Either one could cause this problem. Unfortunately since you can't see any obvious dent on the lens, I think you would need to disassemble the lens so that you can test the movement of the individual lens pieces to determine where the problem is. Sorry I can't be more help Helen.
Hi Russell,I am most wary of all the moving parts(6 metal flaps) in the TZ-60 lens covering.It's way over the top in terms of potential problems in my opinion.Do you have an opinion about this or am I just showing my age(old 35mm girl)?
This is a brilliant,helpful video btw,THANKS :)
Hi Blinky Cat. Without having one in my hand to look at, it would be hard to say. I would hope that Panasonic has figured out a way to prevent dust & particles from getting into the lens, which is usually what causes the lens cover from opening and closing properly. Good luck with whatever you decide on!
Thanks for this I will have another go at it. I took it apart to clean and had to stop because I was totally lost. I found the service manual online and it says you can leave zoom motor inplace also the little optical image stabilizer thing has an extra notch so I think it's only fits in one way. and yes I think you need for gloves otherwise you're practically guaranteed to get a big greasy fingerprint on your nice clean lens !
Very detailed and clearly explained. Sharp images illustrating it. All makes a prefect guide, even though didn´t encouraged me to open my camera. Thanks for the video. Emilio Conde BH - MG - Brasil
Thank you!
Pretty darn amazing instructional video, so excellently done and narrated. Thanks for such a great production.
Thank you Simon!
Hi Vlad. I'm sorry that I don't have anything for you on the ZS20. I do have a ZS19 that I plan on doing a video on in the future, but I'm not sure if it is similar to the ZS20 at all. If I find anything about the ZS20's lens unit I will certainly pass the information on to you. Good luck with it. I hope you're able to get your camera up and running again.
If memory serves me correct the ZS20 nearly the same as a ZS19 the difference being the ZS20 has a GPS. If you do a tear down on a ZS19 that would be great as I have a ZS19 w jammed lens and I haven't had the confidence to open it up.
Frank Sweeney I agree Frank, I think the only difference is the GPS feature. The lens unit on a ZS19 does seem more complicated than the ZS6/ZS7. But, I do have one torn down on my bench. I'm still working on getting the correct method to re-assemble it. I will sure let you know if I'm ever successful in figuring it out Frank.
Dextor, there is nothing in that page
Thanks for the tutorial. I was stuck with disassembling the lens from the tz60 :/ Do you have an idea how to do it?
I have tried to disassemble the lens unit on the ZS40/TZ60, but have not been successful at it. I do have another ZS40 to attempt it on, if I figure it out I will post the video. All I have on that model for now is the main body disassembly and LCD display replacement. You can see the main bode disassembly video here: ruclips.net/video/fYZlhShQ-hg/видео.html
@@Thebobfactor I saw it and you show it great. You have amazing talent!
Thanks Robert! Just pulled apart and cleaned the lens on a ZS7, your video was a great help!
You're welcome sure Kevin! I'm glad the video helped you out.
Hi Robert. Thanks very much for getting back to me. I will have a go at taking it apart to see if I can fix it. It's worth a try. Many thanks for your advice.
hi Robert i broke apart to clean LUMIX DMC-ZS20 .. .and have difficulties to assemble the lense .... could you please place a tutorial if you can about DMC-ZS20 lense assembly ?
it looks very tricky! i spend already 4 days just to study it
Amazing to find this on RUclips. Thank you. I did all of this procedure without a hitch. Sadly, I couldn't resolve the mechanical problem that is afflicting our ZS5 (but I'm sure it's related to the zoom motor), but now I've been in the guts of a DC. Fun!
Robert,
first of all thank you very much for your amazing videos!
My Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ9 camera stopped working after a drop doing country sky last week.
The camera was in a cushioned case but apparently it hasn't been enough to save it.
The LCD screen isn't broken because the menu labels are displayed properly but the CCD sensor returns a bunch of colored vertical lines. When I take a picture the same bunch of lines is saved in the memory card.
What could I do? I imagine that the CCD sensor could be broken. What do you think? Is it possible to purchase somewhere a CCD sensor for the SZ9?
I've already opened the camera (I know, I'm stupid, I've lost the warranty ), because I hoped in a disconnected connector but apparently everything is fine there.
Thanks in advance for any suggestion.
Hi Alberto.
Oh ya...there's a certain feeling that I get in the pit of my stomach whenever I drop my nice camera on the rocks or in the water. And I've done it a lot. Two years ago I was climbing to the top of a 7500' tall rocky peak in our area and video taping it as I was going. During the last few final steps to the top I was looking at the LCD screen while walking and...ya...that was really stupid. My foot slip and my new Panasonic ZS7 went crashing into a rock while still in my hand. It bent the lens housing so bad that the camera wouldn't work anymore. Needless to say that was the end of the video taping for that trip with that camera. When I got home I was able to disassemble the lens and "straighten" the lens housing out and amazingly it worked again.
On your camera I would "guess" that it isn't the CCD because there really isn't any moving parts on it. It sounds like what you are seeing is an out of focus image. It's possible that the focusing lens or focusing motor, or the image stabilization assembly have become dislodged. Generally a focusing motor problem will generate an error message on your display so I would lean more towards the image stabilization assembly. That part of the lens is one of the last parts that I show being removed in this video.
I did a quick search on the internet, but I wasn't able to find a source for a replacement lens for your camera. I'll keep looking though to see if I can find one.
If you haven't already done so, you might try disassembling the lens to see if you can see the problem. You may get lucky and find that it's something that you can fix.
Good luck with it Alberto!
Thanks Robert for the quick and complete answer.
I will try disassembling the lens (following your video of course). I will keep you up to date about my findings.
Robert,
I've finally found the time to disassemble the optical part: apparently there was an intermediate lens mounted on a movable plastic support controlled by a spring which was stuck somehow. I've released it, reassembled everything and now the camera works perfectly again. So thank you very much!
Alberto Borgnino Great job Alberto!!! From your description I would say that it was the focus lens that was stuck. I'm glad that you were able to repair it!
Hi Robert, I also have a ZS19 that I've partially disassembled with the help of this and other videos. One thing I couldn't find anywhere is what type of screwdriver is needed to get at the sensor. It appears to have torx screws and since I don't have a set myself, I bought a T1, but it was too small.
Dave Hrencecin I have a TS19 partially disassembled on my workbench. I will find out what size it is and get back with you.
Dave Hrencecin The Torx screws on the CCD sensor are T-3.
Robert Hosea Excellent! Thanks ever so much :)
Dave Hrencecin You're sure welcome Dave. I hope you get your camera up and running!
Robert Hosea Oh well... I managed to figure out how to assemble and disassemble the lens, but then as I was putting the lens unit into the casing, I broke one of the tabs (similar to what you're pointing to at ruclips.net/video/zDGVqY2N0PM/видео.html) and the edge of another of the tab "seats" also broke. I might be able to help you reassemble yours so that you can make a ZS-19 video, but it looks like my camera won't be recoverable unless I can acquire a replacement for the two parts that I've now broken.
I'm more than happy to share what I've learned, in any case.
Hello, do you think it could work with the DMC-TZ80 ? Thanks for your answer !
No, unfortunately the TZ80's lens unit is entirely different and more complicated then this one is.
Thank you so much for this great Video! I had a lot of dust on the lens and a repair at the shop would have been at around 200€ - now i could fix it myself :-) Very detailed and nicely explained!
Excellent Laurence! Great job on cleaning your lens. I'm glad the video helped you out.
Hi Robert. I'm planning on cleaning my Tz40 lens using your procedure.
In addition to dust on the lens elements my camera is starting to make a grinding sound when I zoom right out (I've taken 20-25,000 photos with it.) Is there anything that you know of that I may be able to do while I'm in there that may help with this?
Thanks for the great public service that you have performed by providing this video!
Hi Chris. Yes, I think I might know what the problem is. The grinding sound is most likely the focus motor/shaft assembly, which I didn't cover in this video. You can see the focus motor in the video at time index 5:32 when I first take the back off of the lens. It is the motor shown on the left side. That motor has a threaded shaft that moves the focus lens unit up and down. If the shaft gets dirty then it will become hard for the white tab that runs up and down on the shaft to move. The motor is easy to remove. Just take note of the little white tab that runs up and down on the shaft. It will go in a grove that is behind the shaft when you put it back in. The focus lens unit has a spring under it, so be careful when you remove the motor. Once the motor is out you can clean the shaft and turn the white tab that's on it to make sure it is moving freely. You can also put a small amount of lubrication on the shaft to help make the tab move more freely. I hope this fixes the noise that you are hearing Chris. Let me know how you make out on this project. -Bob
Thanks for your reply, Robert. Does the focus motor also do the zooming, then? What sort of lubricant do you recommend? I'll certainly let you know how it went when I've done it. Chris
No, the focus motor does not do the actual zooming Chris. The zoom motor, which is shown at time stamp 3:18, does the actual zooming. But, during the time you are zooming the lens, the focus motor will have to kick in to try to adjust the focus while you are zooming. And if you are zooming a long way, say from zero-zoom to max-zoom, then the focus motor will have to move the focus lens from one end of the shaft to the other to compensate. I've never run into a problem with the zooming motor before, but It's also possible that the problem could just simply be dust or dirt on the many plastic sleeves that are inside the lens unit as the lens extends and contracts, and cleaning the sleeves off while you are putting it back together could cure the grinding sound. For plastic gears you should use a silicone based grease. Let me know what you find out with it. -Bob
Thanks for the detailed explanation, Bob. Chris
quick question: I have a lumix ZX1 when either the lens open or closes, the piece (do not know the name of it) than should close and protect the lens, does not close or open totally, need to shut/open manually, use my finger nail to do it...can this be fixed? how? thanks on advance for your help
Hi Paulo. I'm not familiar with the ZX1 lens unit at all, but if it's similar to other Leica lens units then sand or dirt, or a dent in the lens housing, could cause that problem. The only way to completely clean out any sand or dirt is to remove the front cover unit. Unfortunately you will need to disassemble the lens just to get access to the two screws that hold it on.I do show how to remove that part of the lens at the time location of 16:50 of this video. Also, I show how to remove the entire lens assembly from the camera body in my other video How To Repair A Panasonic Lumix ZS & TZ Model Camera (CCD sensor, lens unit, etc.). You will only need to watch the first few minutes of that video to see how to remove it. It's pretty easy. Good luck with it Paulo and let me know how you make out on it. -Bob
just to congratulations you on marvelous and non selfish work you have done, to help many others... and your way explaining all this is very ... (my english|) right way! others know better what i mean :) .You helped so many peoples, and give so much time and efforts in that matter. That is very generous from you. thanks
Thank you very much mrmot! :-)
I'm losing my mind, Robert! I have the ZS5 and a 10lb maul with it's name written on it! I did okay until 23.10 with the lens... made it to 25:05 with the Image Stabilization Unit. I _did_ get it back in but the gear wouldn't turn the lens. Removing the unit allows me to twist the lens assembly and it works as it should.
Well, I got everything back together, powered it up, and received a zoom lens error - it won't come out of it's hiding place. This is my third attempt and it's sitting inside of a shoebox to keep dust off of it.
Any suggestions? I really know and love this camera and want to keep it! Thanks in advance.
Hi Cyber Doc.
Well, if your 10lb maul has a yellow fiberglass handle on it, then it looks an awful lot like the one that I keep near my workbench. :-)
It definitely sounds like something is jammed up or out of align. That's going to be a tough one to figure out from here. The only problem that I have run into that is similar, is when I didn't get the stabilization unit lined up properly, and it was 1/3 of a turn off and the flat ribbon didn't go over the grove that it needs to go into. It sounds like you have everything else in it's proper place though.
If you could send me some pictures, possibly I could see something. My email address is hiking@thebobfactor.com.
Bob
I have spent hours trying to remove the single screw off the sensor board as it is very tight and has become slightly stripped down after my efforts. Do you have any advice, as I have tried many methods and the last resort will be drilling or using a dremel like tool which will be hard on somewhere so delicate. So frustrating as I am so close to taking apart the lenses which I believe is where the problem lies as my TZ8 got dirty, and now won't focus and shuts down with "System Error (ZOOM)" accompanied by a grinding noise when the lenses move.
Yes, drilling, or a Dremel, might work to get the screw head off. You might also try a screw extractor bit, but I doubt that there is enough area in the screw head to have it grab hold enough to hold. Good luck with it though. I hope you're able to get it removed.
Thanks for the help (and a great video by the way)
Hello Robert. I'm wondering if you have any videos explaining how to fix motor noise in a Panasonic Lumix (mine is a DMC-ZS3)? Over the years, it has started a serious clicking noise when I zoom while recording video. I also noticed clicking as the camera was auto-focusing while I panned some scenery (this model does not have an auto single focus feature). It's not clear to me whether this is repairable, whether there are two separate motors, and what type of grease to use (lithium?). Thanks in advance for any thoughts you may have. Cheers.
+Stuart Smolkin Hi Stuart. I'm sorry I don't have a video regarding the zoom/focusing noise. But I'm sure I'm sure that the noise is due to dust, or to the lack of lubrication of the moving parts inside the lens unit. There are two separate motors for the zooming and focusing. The zoom motor sits on the outside of the lens unit, and the focusing motor is on the inside. I've seen the focusing system fail due to lack of lubrication on the threaded shaft and the plastic part that moves up and down on it. If the moving parts are getting sticky that may be causing the noise you hear. That will be the area that you will need to apply some lubrication. I have used lithium grease in the past on the threaded shaft and I've never had any problems with it. In the case of the zoom noise that won't be quite so straight forward. I doubt it is the motor causing the noise. The noise could be from any one (or all) of the moving sleeves that are on the inside. You will have to tear the lens unit down all the way and clean all of the parts. You should not use any lubrication on the sleeves at all. They should just be cleaned. Let me know how you make out and if you have any questions. -Bob
+Robert Hosea Thanks so much Robert. Based on what you said, I was able to find a video pictorial of how to lubricate one of the motors (link: agardenersmusings.blogspot.com/2013/03/fixing-jammed-focus-lens-in-panasonic.html) and also was able to download a service manual for my model (link: elektrotanya.com/panasonic_dmc-tz7_zs3_sm.pdf/download.html). I'm going to try to clean and lube the zoom motor. The only remaining question is what type of lube to use, and where to obtain it (I googled the Panasonic lube part number but didn't find a source). Any thought on this would be most appreciated. Cheers.
+Stuart Smolkin The picture shown for step #10 in the link you supplied is correct and it is the focus drive motor. Regarding the lubrication to use; you should not use anything that contains Petroleum because of the plastic part that rides on the threaded shaft. I've used white lithium grease (that does not state that it contains Petroleum) in the past without any problems.
+Robert Hosea Robert, I will indeed look locally for some white lithium grease (with no petroleum additives). Also, in case anyone is interested, I did find some lube that is intended specifically for cameras. I''m posting a link here in case this information is of use to your readers (the cost is about seven dollars and it is shipped from China): www.ebay.com/itm/261640441199. Thanks again for all of your guidance.
+Robert Hosea Success, Robert, in solving my zoom and focus noise problem. Thank you! I used your instructions to remove the lens unit and rear lens assembly from my Lumix DMC-ZS3. This gave me access to the two drive gears for the zoom motor and to the worm drive for the focus motor. I cleaned, then lubricated lightly using a toothpick, with non-petroleum white lithium grease as you suggested (purchased a tube of Permatex #80345 stocked locally at Auto Zone). Careful (?) cleaning still left dust on the UV filter, so I quickly disassembled and blew it off gently with a can of compressed air from Office Depot, being careful to hold down the rubber gasket with a small screwdriver so as not to blow away the UV filter. Anyway, the noise during recording is now almost inaudible (i.e., about as good as new). I hope this info is helpful to others, and thank you again for your emailed suggestions. Cheers.
Great ,great work with passion and profesionalism.Thank you for this video.
Hello, my name is Lisa. I've had the same Lumix DCM-Tz2 camera for about 8 years. Yes it's old, but it is by far the deadliest camera I've ever had. Dropped it, in It's case one day, and land d it on the corner of the camera, the only spot not protected by the cas. It quit working, won't even turn on. I have about 5 other digital cameras, one being another Lumix, but none of them one remotely close to the wicked pictures the Tz2 takes. Other than the purple lines through the picture, it's my favourite. Now, is there a way to save my camera??
Nunya Bizziness That's a tough to say what's wrong with it without seeing it Nunya. Did it physically damage the corner of the camera that it landed on? And, was it the top corner nearest to the power switch? Also, does it beep at all when you turn it on?
Hello Robert ! Can I do the same with the Sony Cyber-shot 14.1 MP 10x Opticl Zoom?
The problem is that the lens doesn't move, the camera fell down with the lens open, ant it seems to have something broken. thank you very much
Hayarpi, I'm not at all familiar with the Sony Cyber Shot cameras. I would guess that it's also possible to disassemble them to repair them, but I wouldn't be able to tell you how to do it. Sorry I can't help you with it.
Robert Hosea thank you very much ! I wish i could sent you the camera :)
This was a great video. Very detailed. Although, it didn't fix my problem, I was able to strip down the lens completely and clean it out and reassemble it. Unfortunately, my issue seems to be something else to do with the focusing part.
Hi Tina. I'm sorry that you weren't able to repair your camera. Maybe we can still figure out what is going on with it.
What Lumix model do you have?
Is the problem that your having an out of focus image?
Do you get any error messages on the display?
Do you hear any motors that are continuously running?
Thanks.
- Bob
Good video,was too fiddly for me so i used a hoover ,removed the hose of my upright hoover and and had the camera on in full zoom ,placed it into the suction line and now have a perfect picture
Hi Robert, i have an old TZ7 and inside the first Lens it had Dust. After you very good dicribtion I disamble it fast. Only the screws were dificult to disamble. After this I cant clean the Lens. It was no dust. It was like crystals inside the Lens. In ebay i get a old spare TZ7 it had water inside but the Lens was good :). Many Many Thanks for this good Film
I'm glad you got your camera running again Marcus. Good job!
Hello. I have a 4/3 Panasonic lens, H-H020 which stopped working. Is that something you could look at? Thanks.
Sebastian B Hi Sebastian. I'm afraid I'm not familiar with that lens unit at all. Sorry I can't help you..
Had you make the video showing the opening of the camera body ?
Yes, I have made a few videos that show how to get into different Lumix camera bodies. The video that shows getting into this series of Lumix camera body can be seen here:
ruclips.net/video/o9O43EOkiKY/видео.html
I also have other videos for other models. Which model of Lumix are you wanting to get into?
Thank you, very good video, showing the internal mechanism and lenses's operation
Thank you!
Thanks Robert, I look forward to seeing a video in the future once you have the ZS-19 lens figured out.
Great video. I have an old ZS1 with dust particles between lens. I followed your video and was able to completely disassemble and reassemble it. Unfortunately the particles seems to be between the two pieces of the front lens and was not able to split them apart to clean it. Seem to me that one its sealed,is it ?
Hi. Unfortunately I have not worked on the lens of a ZS1. I wouldn't think that they are bonded or sealed together though. Especially if dust is able to find it's way between them. Sorry I can't be more help.
Its the lens that its closest to the shutter/ retracting front blinds. Seem to be a 2 parts lenses mounted one from outside and one from inside the plastic frame. But not idea on how to separate them
On a closer look, it may not be dust but rather like salt crystals from humidity crystallization, maybe.
@@rogelioleal8960 Just to be sure, you're talking about the main object lens shown here, correct? ruclips.net/video/zDGVqY2N0PM/видео.html
@@Thebobfactor Yes. That one. I went all the way up to remove the shutter front assembly as you showed there. But the lens itself seems to be composed of two lenses on the frame and I cannot figure out how to separate them or if is even possible or need to replace that part.
@@rogelioleal8960 Let me see if I can find a lens that may be similar to look at closer. Are you still able to remove the front lens shutter by removing the three screws from inside the lens? Can you get a picture of the outside of the lens and also one from the inside?
Hi Robert, many thanks for the detailed tutorial. I've got a TZ8 with System Error(focus). After lubricated the shaft of the focus motor and make shore that the white plastic slides easy the error dissapeared but the camera doesn't focus. Any ideea? thanks!
Hi Ov A. When it tries to focus, do you hear the focus motor running at all? And, if the motor is running, do you see the image on the LCD screen changing at all as it tries to focus? Or does the image on the LCD display just stay the same the entire time??
Robert Hosea hi, Robert, yes, i can hear the motor running, and the image changes but just a little. I've just opened it again and i saw that the white plastic was at the end of the crank and the 4th lens was close to the CCD sensor. Sorry i forgot to mention that.
Is there a chance to behave like thins from the dust because i've seen some particle on the lenses and allso on the sensor. Thank you for the replay,
Regards!
Ov A The first thing we will need to do is to find out if the lens unit is moving up and down on the shaft as the focus motors moves the white tab up and down. The lens unit assembly (the black plastic that holds the focus lens) is spring loaded. When you removed, or worked on, the focus motor earlier did you notice if the spring was still there? The only way that the spring could come off is if you removed the focus lens assembly from the pins (one silver and two black) that keep it in line as it moves up and down. Does it appear that the spring is in place?
Robert Hosea yes, the spring is in the place to be and the focus lens slides easy
Ov A Good. The next thing is to turn the shaft of the focus motor and manually run the white tab up and down on the shaft. You can do that by locating a small hole in the plastic housing at the very end of the focus motor shaft. It will be covered by the orange plastic circuit lines. To help find it, look at the CCD side of the lens unit assembly where you can see the three screws that hold the CCD in. Then look over at the area where the focus motor is installed on the other side. You should see a small circular piece of plastic attached to the orange plastic circuit line. Lift up on the circular part and you will see the end of the focus motor shaft. You should be able to use a very small slotted screwdriver to turn the shaft. Using the screwdriver turn the shaft counter-clockwise to make the tab move up the threaded shaft. You will have to turn it many times. When the tab moves up, the focus lens unit should also move up with it. Try that and let me know what you find.
Well, my ZS7 I picked up for $20 on ebay now works flawlessly.. At first I thought the damage I did to the horizontal plastic on the optical isolation system plate that goes over the retractible pin was a show stopper because I kept getting an O.I.S. error after a minute or so telling me to power off and back on again. So I tore it down again and cleaned it up in that area to reduce the chances of sticking as the plate tried to move. that didn't work so I tore it apart a third time and that horizontal part broke off completely when it was attached to the vertical post on the movable board. So I didn't see any function fo that anyway, and put it back together with out it where the pin was still over the movable board but no plastic above it, and low and belold it now works flawlessly !! I think that horizontal piece of plastic isn't functional except maybe to make it harder to back off the pin. So I'm reall happy now as I have a like-new ZS7 that I got very cheap and was able to fix myself thanks to Robert Hosea's outstanding video. THANK YOU SO MUCH !!
Chicago John, what an awesome job of repairing your camera. Your persistence certainly paid off. It can be frustrating after getting a camera back together, only to get yet another error message. And it's easy to just quit at that point. Not you. That's great. I'm glad your camera is working and I'm glad that the videos helped you out! -Bob
Hi Robert....I have a ZS6 Lumix and it just refuses to focus. I was using it and everything was fine, turned it off while rearranging the subject and when back on it won't focus with zoom, auto or halfway pressing the shutter. I can see the objects but they are all out of focus and they record out of focus. With your knowledge can you tell me what is going on? I called Panasonic but the repair bill, as you could guess, means I might as well buy another camera. I'm good with electronics but ignorance of this is stopping me.,,,,Thanks. Greg
Hi Greg.
If it's not focusing at all, and you don't hear a small focus motor running, then there are a couple of possibilities that I can think of. The first would be a loose flat ribbon cable. There are two cables on that lens assembly. One goes is for the CCD, and the other controls the focus, zoom motor, and some other stuff. Make sure that the flat ribbon cable is properly seated in it's connector on the main board. The next possibility is the main board is bad. That would suck if it is. The last possibility is the focus motor is either bad, or more commonly, just stuck. You can see the focus motor in the video at time index 5:32 when I first take the back off of the lens. It is the motor shown on the left side. That motor has a threaded shaft that moves the focus lens unit up and down. Sometimes the threaded shaft will bind up in inside a small white tab that it controls. The motor is easy to remove. Just take note of the little white tab that runs up and down on the shaft. It will go in a grove that is behind the shaft when you put it back in. The focus lens unit has a spring under it, so be careful when you remove the motor. Once the motor is out check to see if the little white tab is bound up. If it is, that's your problem. Move it back and forth a little to get it moving again, and then put a small amount of lubrication on it.
Let me know how you make out on this Greg.
-Bob
Hi Bob.....Ok here's the down low on my camera. I followed your excellent video through and got it apart.
That was very well done dude....I can't imagine anything better as far as a tutorial.
The trouble was in the white tabbed/spring/auto focus slave unit. The white tab still had grease on it and when I removed the motor the lens stayed in place. I pulled it up and it felt stuck, that's when I found the spring and sorted out how that works and what was going on. It seems to me that using a motor working against a spring could have been better engineered to perform that function but in general it is a marvel how they go together. I greased it up and all is good. Maybe it needs a zerk fitting on the side. :)
The other problem I had, which you may point out, is on the CCD there is a small bluish lens and rubber sort/of retainer. It stuck to the lens side and when I went to reassemble as I turned it over both pieces (rubber & blue cover) were on the table. In your video it stuck to the CCD but you can't reinstall it that way. That thing is an absolute nightmare to go back together as the rubber retainer does not index the blue piece nor do either piece index onto the CCD. It finally has to go into the lens receptacle and then verrrry carefully install the CCD. Yikes!!
But, I got it working and I have you to thank for it. Thanks for saving me a whole lot of wasted time and aggravation. You're a hero in my book!
I owe you a flagon of pivo.....many thanks.
Greg
Excellent Greg! I'm glad you were able to figure it out and get it working again. Very cool. I did also run into the same problem one time with the seal and filter (I think that's what that is) on the CCD. I agree, it was a nightmare replacing it. All other times they did stay attached to the CCD which made it much easier. In the video I don't go into detail on removing the focus motor and lens assembly at all, but I have received many questions on that area. So I may do a short video that covers just that area. And your feedback on that really helps me out. Thanks very much. And, it would be great if someday I could take you up on that flagon of pivo Greg.
Somewhere in my readings I seem to recall that filter referred to as an "infrared filter." There is another guy out there doing vids about this topic and with all due respect his is also quite good. I think it's Graham Houghton.Your audio is easier for my ears however to discern, something to do with vocal timbre.
Anyway, I wonder how many cameras have gone in the trash because of a broken spring or plastic on plastic post that has worn to the point that it is rubbing and hangs up, and it doesn't take much. Mine was bone dry and that spring has very little extension torque to it to overcome the problem. I also think that heat will affect that camera function and mechanism as that was the one influence that I believe caused mine to finally fail. I have owned this camera for quite a bit and it goes in my backpack almost 100% of the time so I am surprised I haven't had more problems with it.
If you happen to ponder my earlier question about a recommendation for a camera in this class that does a better job of night pics i am all ears. I was in BudaPest and my night pics of the castle were disappointing but that was the technology back then. What say ye?
I think a short tutorial on that drive motor would be well founded but man, ya gotta watch that skinny cable!! lol......Cheers
Super clear video. Really easy to follow. Well done.
Robert, i followed you video on cleaning the lens of a DMC-ZS10 Lumix, everything went well, but on reassembly i tore the flat ribbon cable that's going to the image stabilization in the front lens, Ribbon #T12NE1, i can't find it on line and the camera repair shops wont touch it because it already open and don't want to be responsible. Can you help me find the ribbon.
Sometimes you can get lucky and find the individual lens parts on eBay. But I looked and I don't see that part anywhere. So, unfortunately you may need to buy a used lens unit just to get the part you need. I did find one on eBay for a ZS10 that is listed as working. You can see it here: www.ebay.com/itm/Panasonic-Lumix-DMC-ZS8-DMC-ZS10-TZ18-TZ20-Lens-Replacement-Unit-Part/282879672765?hash=item41dcf141bd:g:XZMAAOSwXRNag0G3.
It a ZS10
Yes, the lens unit will work on a ZS8 and ZS10.
Great video I have a DMC-TZ8 and now that I have the dust removed the pictures have a red hue to them? What did I do wrong? Help!
Hi Laura, I would check all of the flat ribbon cables and make sure that they are all seated correctly in their sockets. I've run in that problem before with the LCD flat ribbon not being straight and the LCD display didn't work right. All I had to do was straighten out the ribbon in the socket and that fixed it. Let me know if that helps.
Thank you I will try again but the display looks great it in the camera? I did notice that the rubber seal on the sensor is off. So I put it under the sensor. I thought it was attached to the sensor though?
laura wells
I don't think it is attached. I will look tomorrow though and see for sure if it is. I'll also take a look and see if I can see if there is anything else that may cause the problem you're having.
laura wells
I double checked and the rubber seal is not attached to the CCD. Are you only seeing the red hue when you are looking at the pictures on your computer? Or do they also look red on the LCD display of the camera too? One thing that may cause this would be if the flat ribbon for the CCD was not seated properly. But, if that were the case, I would think that you would see the red hue on the camera's LCD display too. I sent you an email yesterday so you should have mine now. Perhaps you could send me one of the pictures so that I can see how it looks. Thanks.
Thank you Robert, I just cleaned the ccd and now have perfect pics again. Thanks so much :D
Excellent Craig! I'm glad the video helped you out.
I have a Panasonic camera ZS7
The camera fell into the water and since it does not work at all
Not turn on
What could be the problem
The camera has been dismantled according to your instructions
Thanks
Yael
Hi Robert, please I`ve got a Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1, It has a problem when I turn on It appear a message "Turn off and turn on again" when I do it then appear other message "System Error (Focus)" in both case the camera is blocked, I do not trust in technicians neither I have not any near. Could You help me to determine the possible problem?
I would guess that it's probably that the focus motor is stuck. The focus motor is the small motor inside the lens unit that has a long threaded shaft with a white plastic tab and also a plastic unit that holds a lens. Both run up and down the threads on the shaft as the motor turns. Many times the motor itself is fine, and it's just that the white plastic tab gets stuck. I don't show removing the focus motor in the video, but it's easy to do. There is one screw on the motor side to remove and the entire unit will come out. The plastic unit that holds the lens is spring loaded, so remove it slowly. Check to see if the white plastic tab is stuck. If you can loosen it and it seems fine then you may want to add a very small amount of lubrication to it before you put it back in, to help it operate properly. Good luck and let me know what you find on it.
Robert Hosea Thanks Robert for answering, well when I turn on the camera the sound of the motor is a little harder than before. So I will try to do that You recommend me. Many thanks
Hi, I have a DMC-TZ40 with a broken screen. Is it possible to replace it economicaly?
David, I found a couple of replacement LCD touch screens for your TZ40 on Ebay, but they don't come cheap. It looks like they start at $125.99 (+ $2.99 S&H). All are in China and it would take at least a few weeks to get them. I did a quick look on the cost of a new TZ40 and it looks like they start around $300 for a Japanese version. I did find a used (like new) TZ40 (English) on eBay, that it is going for $265. I've never worked on a TZ40, but I would guess that replacing the LCD screen on it should be possible...and hopefully not too difficult. Good luck with it David.
Robert Hosea Thanks for that Robert, but I think i'll bite the bullet and buy a new TZ60. I hope they have got around the noise problem in low light and the bellows action of the lens sucking in minute debris
Have you ever worked on the Lumix LX15/LX10? Mine is full of dust.
No I'm afraid I haven't worked on that camera.
I have a zs20. When in video mode and using the zoom, sometimes it will stop the video. It does not happen all the time. Any ideas as to a solution. I love the camera.
+Alan Gelman I don't think I've ever run into that problem before Alan. Is this problem something that you've always run into, or did it just start doing it? The only thing that I can think of that even closely relates to this problem is something that I ran into with my Canon 60D camera. While recording video it would just randomly stop the recording. Not always though, just sometimes. It turns out that the problem was my SD card, which was a low cost SD card, and it was just too slow to keep up with the recording depending on what I was recording. I purchased a faster card for the camera and the problem disappeared. So....possibly....maybe....when you're zooming in, the video is needing to save more info to the SD card and the SD card can't keep up and so the camera stops the recording. That is a 100% stab in the dark though Alan.
The only other thing that it may be is possibly a main board defect, or a "sticky" spot in the len's internal zoom components (motor, gears) which may be causing a power drop due to over-current while you are zooming.
Sorry I can't be more help.
-Bob
+Robert Hosea .I've had this camera 3 1/2 years. Never had the problem until 6 months ago. I love the camera, and have taken about 400, 5 minute videos of local talent here in Las Vegas. Sound and video are great for a point and shoot. I guess it might be time to upgrade to the dmczs40. I will try a new sd card, thanks for the tip A gelman
Alan, something that you might try, just for curiosity sake, is to see if the recording is shutting down when the zoom level is put in the same general area each time. If it does, then that would point to the possibility of a a problem in the lens unit itself. Possibly the zoom motor or other internal components. This would only help you out though if you thought you might be willing to change out the lens unit. A new lens unit from eBay costs about $130.
This is really great info Robert, thank's for showing it in detail's.
Cheers
Kenneth
Thank you Kenneth!
Thank you! Fantastic videos and a major help!
+Xander Kennedy Excellent Xander! I'm glad the video helped you out.
Hello ! Thank you very much ! I could clean my TZ6 + TZ10 lens with your videos. 2 x 80€ saved :-)
Hey that's great! I'm glad the videos helped you out. Thanks for letting me know!
😕 mine had it completely had it it’s 2 years old I have a tz80 camera the len cap had came off so I guess it’s completely broken 😞
You're sure welcome Yael. Best of luck in getting your camera working.
Great Video! Very thorough.
Thanks
Hi Robert, have you y Video for a repair of the autofocus motor. I have a Camera with "Systemfehler Schärfeeinstellung" and i think it is the autofocus motor.
BR
Stephn
Hi Robert,
This is really great video. Thanks !
Do you have video for disassemble Nikon Coolpix lens units ?
Thanks,
Yaoming
I'm sorry Yaoming. I don't have a video for the Nikon Coolpix lens unit.
Thanks for your quick reply.
Best,
Yaoming
How to fix the zoom error in lumix TZ6 please tell me
Thank you! Thanks to your video, I was able to clean the CCD. Great video!
Milan Vidakovic That's great Milan! I'm glad the video helped you out.
Hello, can you make some lumix DMC-FH25 desassemble and reassamble lens tutorial? please I need help
Hi. I'm looking at doing some more cameras soon. I'm will be finishing up a video on a Canon A4000 and a DMC-ZS50 very soon. I can look at doing the FH25 after that. It will be a few weeks at least though before I can do it. Is the problem that you're having with the lens unit itself, or is it something else with the camera? Any error messages being displayed?
Realmente eres un profesional. Thank you very much. This video is excellent.