[LRflex] Re: R3 not working well in cold weather

At 26/12/2008, you wrote:
I've recently started having issues with my trusty R3 in cold weather (when it gets to zero degrees). When on auto mode the shutter stays open for around 4 or 5 seconds. It's as if the batteries are not working properly. I replaced the batteries but the problem still persists in cold conditions.
Has anybody else experienced these problems? Is there an easy solution? I read somewhere that replacing the two silver oxide batteries with one lithium type might help, does anyone have experience of this? 


Hi Ron!
Lithium batteries might help, as lithiums are reputed to work at lower temps. However, if you're talking zero Fahrenheit, (minus 18 Celsius) then battery issues are "normal". Almost no non-esoteric batteries will work well at those temps ... simply keeping your camera inside your parka, as much as possible, may help.
If you're talking zero Celsius (+32 Fahrenheit) then the only issue should be keeping them warm - regardless of the type.
Bear in mind that Leica do not guarantee performance of their cameras below 0 Celsius. I have had this pointed out to me in no uncertain terms, by Leica Service, Solms, when I had "issues' with my R8 +DMR. That being said, I found it, and my other Leicas (including the R3), worked well, at -10 to -15C, providing I kept them inside my Parka (but outside my vest). Below that, I tend to stay indoors ... I'm such a wimp! 

Hope this helps!



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David Young,
Logan Lake, CANADA

Limited Edition Prints at: www.furnfeather.net
Personal Web-site at: www.main.furnfeather.net



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