ZM 35/2 loose front element

[douglasf13]

Hi. I just got a new 35/2, and it's having an issue. I noticed that it rattled the other day, and it seems that the front element and retaining ring spin freely and move slightly. I tried tightening the ring around the front element, but it just spins forever.

I don't believe that this is the same issue as the wobble that I've read so much about, and I can't tighten the rings in the rear of the lens at all. Any ideas on a quick fix? Thanks!

 

[douglasf13]

Hi. I should have been more specific. I'm not talking about the ring with writing on it. I'm talking about the ring inside of that that has baffling. There are two notches that I'm guessing are for a spanner wrench, and, if I spin those, the ring and the entire front element spins (I see the dust on the element moving.) If I point the lens up or down, the front element nudges slightly forward or back, making a tapping sound.

 

[EdwardKaraa]

That is very unfortunate Douglas. I think you better not try to fix it yourself. Just return it for an exchange. I have recently bought 4 ZM lenses, 3 of them already arrived and tested. They're working great with absolutely no issues.

PS: well, I forgot that my 35/2 had a stiff focusing ring in the vertical position. But I think it either went away with use, or maybe I just got used to it 😀

 

[douglasf13]

Hi, Edward. The tough part is that ZM lenses are so hard to find right now that I don't think I can get an exchange. Maybe I should just send it straight to Zeiss?

 

[EdwardKaraa]

Hi, Edward. The tough part is that ZM lenses are so hard to find right now that I don't think I can get an exchange. Maybe I should just send it straight to Zeiss?

I would strongly recommend you contact Zeiss marketing manager in the US, Richard Schleuning. He has been very helpful in the past, and a real gentleman.

 

[kbg32]

He is great. When my hood for my 18/4 got damaged, I couldn't find a replacement, so he sent me one.....free of charge!

 

[MCTuomey]

+1 re Richard Schleuning's helpfulness.

 

[Shade]

Don't try to fix it yoourself, either ask for a refund, replacement or send in to Zeiss for a repair. You might get some freebies for your troubles.