Panasonic Lumix TZ70 / ZS50 disassembly

WARNING - the Torx T3 sensor screws are adjusting screws. Don't move them unless you have to, see the warnings below.
** I've re-made this video with more information on the sensor mounting/adjusting screws
here: • Panasonic Lumix TZ70/Z...
- see that video at 18:50 for details.
Panasonic Lumix TZ70 / ZS50 disassembly
Tools needed: #000 crosshead screwdriver
(A Torx T3 driver is needed for the sensor - but WARNING: The three Torx screws are alignment screws, if they are disturbed then 'Optical tilt adjustment' is required, and this requires special equipment and software, according to a copy of the repair manual that I have just acquired. See the re-made video linked above).
This only covers as far as removing the lens and sensor.
Lens disassembly is an order of magnitude more complex.
After I made this video, I did decide to replace the complete lens assembly with one bought from Ebay, and it works; however, I do occasionally get focussing issues.
Individual lens components are also available on Ebay, much cheaper; I didn't go that route since, though I had a tiny piece of plastic which I think had broken off, I couldn't tell which component it had broken from. Also, as I said, lens disassembly is much more complex.

[@billchalbergjr.5386]

success! Thank you for pointing out I could remove the sensor without taking apart other flat cables. I opened the sensor and saw the spec on it. Reassembled….no spec. Very helpful video.

[@l1089624]

Thank you for posting this. I watched the beginning to replace my LCD. Its unbelievable that Panasonic didn't put a protective layer of plastic over the very fragile screen.

[@stfnsipos]

Low costs high sell prices. ....

[@vjderose]

Thank you so much for posting this cr01! I disassembled my ZS50, repaired a sticky lens diaphragm, and successfully got it back together. I would not have attempted it without watching this first.

[@andersthorsen744]

Thanks. Helped me fix my daughters TZ70. The cable from the sensor slightly out of its contact causing the display showing colored lines instead of the sensor image (worked for stored photos and settings, why I expected the display to be working). Refitting the cable and it works.

[@AndrewJones-uc7pg]

Thank you. A most useful video when I wanted to replace the lens unit

[@dougfloraday9790]

Thanks for posting this. I had a mite sitting on the sensor of my Lumix ZS-50. Got right to it with your help
Thanks, you saved me some $$$$

[@simplesimon9780]

Thanks, I need to clean the inside of the front element of my TZ-70 and so this is very useful.

[@cr10001]

Hi Simon, I only went as far as removing the lens assembly in my video. As noted, the lens itself is much more tricky. I did find a video on lens disassembly (different model Lumix). Only hint I can suggest is, put witness marks (with e.g. felt pen) on parts of the barrel before sliding them apart.

[@antubefrank]

I had the same problem.
I followed your video.
Great video, thanks.
But, I also wasn't able to solve the problem of the extended lens.
I might try disassembly of the lens as a next attempt.

[@cr10001]

My lens broke a tiny piece of plastic because, I think, I fell over and bumped it while extended. Lens disassembly is a step beyond what I cared to attempt, I can only wish you luck. :)

[@lazerman121]

Thanks this helped me get into mine. Unfortunately my issue was a broken ribbon cable within the lens itself.

[@TheGreenOps]

Thank you, I think I have a particle of dusk on my sensor and am going to try to remove it, thanks

[@cr10001]

The sensor is fairly easy to get at, but you do just need a Torx T3 screwdriver. Good luck!

[@kayaksnorkeluk8272]

Trying to do this now but the tab which hold on the screen won't release??? Your just pops open @4:47 but mine is stuck solid

[@kayaksnorkeluk8272]

Never mind, it eventually popped out. Got the lens out, now need to open the sensor.