Cleaning leak from batteries (& old film)?

Question

I recently discovered my dad's old Minolta Maxxum 7000. The camera hasn't been touched in probably ten years, and still contains a partially used roll of film and four AAA batteries. As the question says, the batteries leaked. I got the batteries out with a ruler, but how would I go about cleaning the battery compartment without damaging it? I have access to all the parts of the battery component as it slides out of the main body.

Also, would the roll of film in the camera and the other unused roll in the case have expired after at least nine years?

Answer 1

Go ahead and have the film processed.  You may have some colour shift, but at least you will know what is on the roll

Soak the battery holder in a solution of baking soda ... it will neutralize the acid.

Answer 2

That's why cameras stored for a long time need to have the batteries removed.  You can try to chip out as much of the leakage as possible.  Then use a clean pencil eraser to try to rub out any remaining leakage on the terminals.  Carefully blow out the interior so none goes deep into the camera.  Then wipe the terminals with a q-tip soaked in a little rubbing alcohol.  Then pop in new batteries and see if it works.  If not, then the leakage probably got too far into the camera, and it will need to be taken apart to clean it all out.

The film might still have some images on it.  Don't expect much from them.  Get it developed and see, but don't try using the rest of it.  Just buy a roll of fresh film.

Answer 3

I agree with fhotoace 100%.

Being an automotive technician for over 30 years and having tried a myriad of battery cleaning products, I've never found anything as effective and safe as sodium bicarbonate-water solution for cleaning battery acid. Besides car batteries, I've used baking soda solutions to clean battery acid from flashlights, remote controls, clocks, calculators and toys - just to name a few.

Another suggestion: After you're done cleaning and drying the battery compartment, spray it with Deox It by Caig Laboratories, Inc. to clean and prevent oxidation of the metal parts.

Deox It can usually be found at guitar shops because it is mainly used on electronic contacts like guitar pots, phono plugs and effects but it works well on any electronic equipment like home theater connections or even circuit boards. I'm in the middle of the Pacific and constantly battling corrosion so it's been like a godsend for my electronics. Good luck!

Answer 4

Try washing the affected area with a solution containing a 50/50 mixture of (white) vinegar and pure water, provided it hasn't seeped into the cameras electronics. As for the film, get it processed. You never know what you may find.