OLY 50mm 1.8 relube

[sanmich]

Is there a place explaining how to open the 50mm 1.8 and reach the helicals.
I did open the lens to clean it a bit, but didn't dare continue to the helicals.
Also, what grease should I use to get a very easy focusing action?
thanks!

 

[sanmich]

anyone....?

 

[ferider]

Never cleaned a 50/1.8, but a 40/2, Michael. Didn't take notes, but once you take the rubber grip off, it should be self-explanatory.

Roland.

 

[p.giannakis]

Is this of any help to you?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HgQN92cPQUg

 

[Landshark]

In order to thoroughly clean and relube the helical, go in from the rear of the lens.
For a really Q&D job, set the lens to it's closest focus & put a bit of grease on the exposed section of helical. As close as you can to the front of the lens. When you work the lens, it will spread the grease.

The helical uses interrupted threads. This means you have five or six starting points. So you can't just screw it together like a nut & bolt.

The right way is to remove the lens guides, Plainly make an alignment mark BEFORE you unscrew the helical. Clean it with Naptha or other solvent. Lightly lubricate the threads and reassemble.
If you didn't note the engagement point of the threads when it came apart, you're in for some trial and error fussiness. THERE IS ONLY ONE correct start point. If you don't hit it the first time, unscrew it and shift the helical one thread at a time.

 

[Richard G]

And the grease....? I relubricated an 80 year old Elmar with a fine bicycle grease, but it was too fine. I cleaned that off and got some automotive bearing grease and that has been perfect. But the helical of that lens can't degas to the glass. Something more particular is likely necessary for the Zuiko.

 

[Lightshow]

I've been using this stuff.
http://www.micro-tools.com/store/P-HG-10/Grease-Helical-10-Light-8ml.aspx
Or the thicker
http://www.micro-tools.com/store/P-HG-30/Grease-Helical-30-Medium-8ml.aspx

Which is also available at
http://www.japan-hobby-tool.com/cart/syouhin.php?cat=00000010

 

[Lightshow]

In order to thoroughly clean and relube the helical, go in from the rear of the lens.
For a really Q&D job, set the lens to it's closest focus & put a bit of grease on the exposed section of helical. As close as you can to the front of the lens. When you work the lens, it will spread the grease.

I've always had mixed results doing this as dirt can be forced into the helical causing it to be less than smooth, I've typically done a full clean and relube after and was glad I did.