Olympus OM Lens Repair - Is this a unique problem?

[Miles.]

Over the last year I’ve gotten into the Olympus OM system (Film OM) and have been surprised to hear from multiple technicians that OM lenses can sometimes be impossible to service due to certain types of loctite used, and some elements being glued into place.

My questions are:

1. Is this a common issue to any other lens system of the "classic era?" I presume lots of modern AF lenses are built this way, but I haven't encountered these issues with other lens mounts I collect and use.

2. Can anyone elaborate why it's so hard to dissolve the loctite and/or glue used? I presume because doing so risks the elements separating, as well. Is that correct?

I've grown to really enjoy the OM system and am worried we're soon approaching a time when many of these lenses have haze issues that simply cannot be addressed.

 

[JeffS7444]

It was true of the front optical cell of my Olympus 35RD. Normally, it's something that I'd expect to unscrew with ease, but not with this camera: The factory used generous amounts of adhesive to lock it into place. Solvents do work, kinda, but won't necessarily penetrate deep enough to make life easy.

 

[p.giannakis]

I don't know if you have a specific lens in mind but Luton Cameras will service any OM lens - so there must be a way.

It was a nightmare trying to unscrew the inner retaining ring on my MC50 f/1.4 which holds the three front elements. I ended up with blisters on my fingers trying to turn the spanner. Qualified repairmen with the right equipment would do it easier.

I would be very very careful as to were I would put solvents as this might migrate on glass elements. It is ok on screws but nowhere near retaining rings.

 

[jesse1dog]

I've got that issue with my OM 100mm f2.8 lens which has fungus. The front block seems to be set solid. Realistically the lens is a write-off with repair cost around the £200 mark.

 

[p.giannakis]

I've got that issue with my OM 100mm f2.8 lens which has fungus. The front block seems to be set solid. Realistically the lens is a write-off with repair cost around the £200 mark.

Really? That's an excessive quote 😮

From my pancolar and Takumars to my OMs (35f/2 and 50f1.4), I never paid more than £70 (including postage) for a full overhaul at Luton Cameras. Give them a call.

 

[aw614]

I noticed with the om 50mm F1.8 different construction on two examples, one was easier than another to take apart...that was an annoying experience.

 

[Joao]

Can you recommend a reliable Zuiko lens repair technician working inside the E.U. ? Apart from customs expenses, I had some problems with items returning from the UK. My Zuiko 50 mm 1.4 developed some fog inside (noticeable even when I look through the viewfinder ! )
I am grateful for any information
Joao

 

[p.giannakis]

Can you recommend a reliable Zuiko lens repair technician working inside the E.U. ? Apart from customs expenses, I had some problems with items returning from the UK. My Zuiko 50 mm 1.4 developed some fog inside (noticeable even when I look through the viewfinder ! )
I am grateful for any information
Joao

Frank Timmann (Om Doktor) in Germany. He has good reputation.

 

[p.giannakis]

I noticed with the om 50mm F1.8 different construction on two examples, one was easier than another to take apart...that was an annoying experience.

There are at least 4 different Zuiko 50f/1.8.

- the original M Zuiko 50f/1.8
- the silvernose OM Zuiko 50f/1.8
- the later OM F.Zuiko 50f/1.8 (including MC Zuiko)
- the "Made in Japan " multi-coated zuiko 50f/1.8

The first one is rare. Lucky you if you have one. The first three are relatively easy to service. The last one can be a bit of a pain in the bum as is slightly different and sometimes beyond repair if fungus grows between the cemented from elements.

I had the last three and the F.zuiko was my favourite. Now I have a "Made in Japan " one that from time to time use (i prefer the f/1.4 versions). Very often it has to spend time under uv light as there is a small spot of fungus growing.

 

[Joao]

Frank Timmann (Om Doktor) in Germany. He has good reputation.

Thank you. Pan. I will check that option.
Joao