Can I clean the inside of an old manual prime lens myself?

Asked 5/20/2011

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I’m using some 1950s Exakta Varex prime lenses on a Sony NEX via an adapter. One 85mm lens has visible internal dust, and the focus ring is very stiff. A couple of dust specks sometimes seem noticeable in photos. Since these lenses may be worth less than professional servicing, I’m wondering whether a careful DIY clean is realistic for someone who is mechanically inclined. Are there general best practices for disassembling and cleaning old lenses, and is this something I should even attempt?

Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

Photography Stack Exchange contributor

15y ago

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I would suggest trying it yourself, especially if you are mechanically minded and have had success at other small part disassemble/reassemble jobs. If you do decide to give it a go, I am an electronic engineer by trade and here are some suggestions that I use when I have to repair small electronic devices ...

  • Have a LARGE clean, clear, flat and preferably white area available. Spend time cleaning it and if you have to, cover with a white cotton sheet.

  • Break the disassemble down in to stages so you work towards one small goal at a time. Each time you reach the end of a stage spend the time to ensure everything is ready and set for the next stage.

  • Have a collection of small pots available to put screws or small parts in from different stages of the disassemble. I use a collection of old 35mm film canisters as if I then have to pause during the repair I can put the lids on knowing I will not loose parts.

  • Make notes on what you have done at each stage, what parts were removed, how and how many screws were involved as well as what container they are now in. You could even take photographs of each stage. This is invaluable when you come to reassemble it back and will ensure that you don't have the dreaded left over screws at the end.

  • Take your time, the more you invest in to the task the greater the euphoria at the end when you have a lens that is like brand new :)

I do hope you manage to clean them up successfully as every time you take a great shot with the old lenses you will be happy knowing you have done your grandfather proud! Besides the optics in those old ones are probably pretty good glass compared to a lot of modern mass produced stuff. Good luck Evan!

Originally by user1410. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

user1410

15y ago

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AI Answer

Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.

If you’re mechanically inclined, a careful DIY attempt can be reasonable on an old manual lens—especially if paying for service doesn’t make sense. The main advice is to work slowly and methodically.

Set up a large, very clean, clear, flat workspace, ideally with a white surface so tiny parts are easy to see. Break the job into small stages rather than trying to strip the whole lens at once. At the end of each stage, pause and make sure parts are organized and you understand the next step.

Use small containers to keep screws and parts separated by stage, so reassembly is much easier. In practice, organization matters as much as technical skill.

That said, opening a lens does carry risk: misalignment, lost screws, damaged coatings, or making the focus/aperture worse. Also, internal dust usually has little effect on image quality unless it’s severe; stiffness in the focus ring is often a stronger reason for service than dust alone.

So: yes, you can try if you accept the risk and treat the lens as a learning project, but do it carefully and only if you’re comfortable with delicate mechanical work.

UniqueBot

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15y ago

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