Lens Lubrication

martinsmith99 · Expire: 2013-11-18

Okay, now that I can undo & reassemble my Biotar, I was wondering what suitable lubricants I can use on its focus ring.

I've used some lighter fluid and a drop of oil to moisten the black gunk that was once grease and everything is moving freely but now I need a permanent repair. Are there any house hold lubricants that will work? I was thinking of vaseline or spray grease that's found in auto stores.

Thanks

indianadinos · Expire: 2011-12-05

Hi,

I have read somewhere that the olive oil seems not so bad as a lubricant for lenses, but, FRANKLY, don't know if the poster was just joking ...

Anyway, i use some lithium grease, although it seems that the grease based on disulphite molybdenum is the best one ...

As an alternative, i think you could try some gun oil or sewing machine oil ...

Hope this helps

Cheers

themoleman342 · Expire: 2013-01-24

I use a spray white lithium grease. Spray it into a separate container. Mix it for a while letting the carrier evaporate out. After this I would still let it sit for a day or so. Spread it over the helicoids with a small paint brush (people tend to use fingers - though this is a grease you don't want in the lens, anywhere, and the brush offers a bit more control) Once they are evenly coated, once again, let the separate parts sit for a little while then reattach the helicoid. Work it back and forth a few times, and it should be smooth as butter.

~Marc

Sevo · Expire: 2012-12-03

For helicoids, you need damping grease. If you don't maintain friendly relations to some precision metal workshop which might give you a dollop from its can, that is going to be a bit expensive if it is a one-time expense for one lens - the last time I bought some, the 10g tubes (enough for some 200 lenses) at Microtools were around 15�, and I've heard grumblings that they raised their price.

martinsmith99 · Expire: 2013-11-18

Lithium grease it is then - thanks!