dcshooter
Member
I have an m39 version of this lens that has developed the dreaded Summaron haze on the inner elements, and I am attempting a strip down and cleaning (I have a ton of experience working on old lenses), and was easily able to strip off the various exterior rings, re-grease the helicals, etc., but I have been stymied trying to disassemble the inner optical cell in order to access the inner surfaces of the inner elements.
The elements appear to be mounted in removable brass plates, visible in the rear of the picture found at this page: http://photo.net/leica-rangefinders-forum/00YIK6.
I first thought they were screw-in, and tried a small friction tool on each, but to no avail. I've also found references in other threads to the inner elements being slide-in, but it is unclear if they are referring to this version or the M-bayonet version, which has a different design. Either way, they are held fast, and suction cups/calipers/etc. will not remove them.
The main barrel of the cell appears to be of two piece construction, with a seam between bright metal and blackened portions. I've tried unscrewing this portion, both forward and reverse, but it holds fast in both directions. This seam is just ahead of the diaphragm itself, and I'm also afraid that once I get it apart, little blades will go flying everywhere, and I'll face the joy of reassembling the aperture.
In the course of these attempts, I've applied MEK, heat, etc. and nothing has worked. Has anyone successfully here disassembled this and would be willing to share some pointers? The only repair manuals I've been able to find have been for the bayonet version, which hasn't helped. As you might imagine, it's quite frustrating to be so close and not be able to proceed!
The elements appear to be mounted in removable brass plates, visible in the rear of the picture found at this page: http://photo.net/leica-rangefinders-forum/00YIK6.
I first thought they were screw-in, and tried a small friction tool on each, but to no avail. I've also found references in other threads to the inner elements being slide-in, but it is unclear if they are referring to this version or the M-bayonet version, which has a different design. Either way, they are held fast, and suction cups/calipers/etc. will not remove them.
The main barrel of the cell appears to be of two piece construction, with a seam between bright metal and blackened portions. I've tried unscrewing this portion, both forward and reverse, but it holds fast in both directions. This seam is just ahead of the diaphragm itself, and I'm also afraid that once I get it apart, little blades will go flying everywhere, and I'll face the joy of reassembling the aperture.
In the course of these attempts, I've applied MEK, heat, etc. and nothing has worked. Has anyone successfully here disassembled this and would be willing to share some pointers? The only repair manuals I've been able to find have been for the bayonet version, which hasn't helped. As you might imagine, it's quite frustrating to be so close and not be able to proceed!
