Lens CLA oil

[nongfuspring]

Last night I degreased and regreased the helix on my industar 26. It made a huge improvement (it's amazing how much crap was in the lens), but it still has a slightly loose, rough, feel to the focussing which I can only put down to the manufacturing tolerances being not that great. I was wondering if the right choice in oil might help. I used a generic synthetic oil I think is probably used mostly for sewing machines that has a very fine almost watery consistency, and was wondering if it would be better to use something a little more viscous? What works for you guys?

 

[Sid836]

I think that you should use silicone grease instead of oil. Oil just eases friction between surfaces, while some lubricant with higher viscosity such as grease would provide a tighter movement of parts against each other.

 

[02Pilot]

I've used synthetic wheel bearing grease on focusing helixes for some time now. Works quite well, especially for lenses that are a little loose. The only downside is that it will stiffen up somewhat in cold temperatures, so if you do a lot of outdoor shooting in winter this may be an issue.

 

[KoNickon]

Get that oil out of there -- not thick enough, so it'll not do the job over time. But more important, the oil will migrate to places you don't want. A light grease such as lithium grease will work well in all temperatures, and should last a long time.

 

[nikarlo]

Lithium grease is good

 

[john neal]

The famed brian Sweeney used to use a synthetic vacuum pump grease, but i don't know where he bought it - makes the helical really smooth with just the right amount of friction.

 

[nongfuspring]

Thanks guys, I'll redo the CLA and opt for the lithium grease for the time being. Will definitely also keep an eye out for that vacuum pump grease if I can.

 

[Brian Legge]

I tried lithium grease at one point. It separated and spread like oil after a little while.

Not the cheapest solution but Micro-tools sells helical grease which may hold up better. I haven't had issues with it, though I haven't been able to pick up the lower viscosity(?)/lighter dampening one I'd prefer as they never seem to have it in stock. :\

 

[KoNickon]

Interesting about the lithium grease. I actually use some good quality Campagnolo grease for bicycles. Not exactly sure what's in it but it works very well -- just the right weight.