Lube for Elmar 50mm f3.5 LTM threads?

[Field]

My Elmar, I took it off and touched the threads too much accidentally and now focusing is difficult. I need to put some lube of whatever was on it, back on, so I can focus it easy again! I just have no idea what to use.

Thanks.

 

[xayraa33]

My Elmar, I took it off and touched the threads too much accidentally and now focusing is difficult. I need to put some lube of whatever was on it, back on, so I can focus it easy again! I just have no idea what to use.

Thanks.

I used a small bit of white lithium grease on the focus helical of my I-22 lens after I cleaned the threads with naphtha.
It has been focusing smooth and fine for several years now.

Do not over-lube what ever you do.
and clean the threads before you lube.

 

[rodinal]

Time ago I got an Elmar with clean glass but very hard to focus. After disassembling it (pretty easy, just need to remove one screw) I cleaned the old, dry, grease with cotton swabs, alcohol and toothpicks and replaced it with a synthetic (silicon) grease I bought for my enlarger (the rack and pinion to adjust height). This was a very thick, white grease intended for bicycle chains ( horror !!!). Worked like a charm. Whatever grease you use, just be sure to use an absolute minimum amount and apply it with a toothpick along the threads.

Of course, you already know that this lens has a multiple (3) entry thread and must be careful to use the correct entry point when reassembling it to ensure correct focusing.

Good luck.

 

[Field]

Yes, I had to figure out the entry point that works. BUh that only took like an hour.

I will try some bike grease since I have it, and it works nice on bikes.

 

[Sonnar Brian]

I use white Lithium grease on J-3's, J-8's and others.

For the Elmar 5cm f3.5, I-50 collapsible, and I-22 collapsible- I used a heavier grease for a more damped movement. If you want a heavier motion, vacuum pump grease or Plumber's Silicone Grease is worth trying. White lithium grease for an easier motion. If the helical is old, worn, or just has play in it: the heavier grease helps.

 

[Rico]

I thoroughly cleaned out the threads of my RS, and am running it with no lube: a bit loose in the helical, and grabby. Guess some grease is in order to restore the glide. 🙂

 

[hans voralberg]

Castrol lithium grease at any bike store