Could anybody tell me how the Rebel 2000 stacks up against the EOS 630? I currently have the 630, but am experiencing shutter problems. I would like to weight the expense of repairs against the purchase of a newer model. Since the 630 is no longer available, the most comparable model I can see is the Rebel 2000. By the way, has anybody experienced the shutter repair? ...and if so, how much did it cost?

-- Ken Bryner (kbryner@mediaone.net), June 21, 2001

Answers

I'd rate the 630 as a step or two up from the Rebel 2000. The 630 was built very well and offered custom functions. Anything less than the Elan 7 would certainly be a step down. The Rebel 2000 certainly does come with a good feature list though and it's AF is faster.

I've never had one repaired, but I understand the usual method is to replace the shutter assembly once it starts sticking. That often exceeds the cost of replacing it with a good used Camera (about $200 at online auctions).

These shutters usually start to stick because of a black substance that starts to coat the shutter leaves on the upper left corner (when viewed from the back). This is a plastic that melts from pollution, age and heat. It can be cleaned off with Q-Tips and alcohol or lighter fluid. You have to be patient & persistent as you clean a little and fire the shutter a lot. Do that cycle over & over, on both sides of the shutter. Eventually it works. Don't bend the shutter leaves too much. Let me know if you want to sell it as is.

-- Jim Strutz (j.strutz@gci.net), June 21, 2001.

This is a known issue for the 600 series cameras. The foam used to absorb some of the shutter blade's impact, a cushion of sorts, has broken down and will need to be replaced. I'd recommend against trying to clean the blades yourself, since you'll never really get to the problem area, the foam, itself.

I had mine fixed around 3 years ago at a cost of $140 USD by an authorized Canon service center. The camera's still going fine.

I suspect the next time it happens, if it does, there won't be parts available to replace the shutter. So, factor this in as well.

Regards

SR

-- S Ratzlaff (ratzlaff@ticnet.com), June 22, 2001.