Nikkor 35-70 F2.8 lens operation: I just got a Nikkor 35-70 F2.8 push/pull zoom lens and I'm having a little issue with smoothly operating the "slide" ring going from 35-70 and back.

jerrypoller Loc: Huntington, NY

I just got a Nikkor 35-70 F2.8 push/pull zoom lens and I'm having a little issue with smoothly operating the "slide" ring going from 35-70 and back. The slide needs a little push/pull to overcome the inertia of being at one end or the other of the zoom range. When I start the zoom in a sports action situation, I invariably introduce a noticeable camera shake and it makes it difficult to get into quick focus. Am I just experiencing a learning curve issue (this is my first push/pull vs ring zoom lens), or might I have a mechanical issue that needs Nikon attention?

Screamin Scott Loc: Marshfield Wi, Baltimore Md, now Dallas Ga

I'm assuming you got a manual focus version ?... Sounds like the grease has solidified a bit. It may loosen up in time with use or warmth. Otherwise a repair is in order to replace that grease.

EDIT:
the F2.8 was only an AF version... I doubt that Nikon would service this lens, but most any repair facility would be able to regrease the zoom ring for you...

jerrypoller wrote:

I just got a Nikkor 35-70 F2.8 push/pull zoom lens... (show quote)

LeoB Loc: Miami, FL

I've had this push/pull lens a long time. Bought it originally with an N-70. I've always enjoyed using it. The build is quite robust, all metal. The push/pull does have a bit of friction to it, but I find mine smooth. I'm assuming you bought yours used. If it does seem to stick, it may need some servicing. It's a great piece if glass, you're going to enjoy it.

Screamin Scott Loc: Marshfield Wi, Baltimore Md, now Dallas Ga

I have both the older MF F3.5 as well as the newer AF F2.8 versions...

LeoB wrote:

I've had this push/pull lens a long time. Bought it originally with an N-70. I've always enjoyed using it. The build is quite robust, all metal. The push/pull does have a bit of friction to it, but I find mine smooth. I'm assuming you bought yours used. If it does seem to stick, it may need some servicing. It's a great piece if glass, you're going to enjoy it.

Screamin Scott Loc: Marshfield Wi, Baltimore Md, now Dallas Ga

Just as an aside, this lens was replaced by the Nikkor 28-70 F2.8, which in turn was replaced by the 24-70 F2.8... All excellent optic lenses.

jerrypoller Loc: Huntington, NY

Screamin Scott wrote:

EDIT:
the F2.8 was only an AF version... I doubt that Nikon would service this lens, but most any repair facility would be able to regrease the zoom ring for you...

Curious why you think Nikon wouldn't work on this lens? And, yes, it is AF.

Screamin Scott Loc: Marshfield Wi, Baltimore Md, now Dallas Ga

Due to it's age... Last produced in 2005 ,the D version that is, and 1992 for the non D version...

jerrypoller wrote:

Curious why you think Nikon wouldn't work on this lens? And, yes, it is AF.

Screamin Scott Loc: Marshfield Wi, Baltimore Md, now Dallas Ga

Wouldn't cost you anything to call them & ask...Of course, until they have it, there likely isn't anyway to know whether or not it was a "gray" market item either...That said, a common repair like replacing the grease wouldn't involve any Nikon specific parts either...There is a UHH member that does repairs... Riggins is his name. Here is a link to his website...

http://www.discountcamerarepair.com/. He would likely be cheaper than Nikon anyway.

jerrypoller wrote:

Curious why you think Nikon wouldn't work on this lens? And, yes, it is AF.

jerrypoller Loc: Huntington, NY

Thanks for the repair reference

Screamin Scott wrote:

Wouldn't cost you anything to call them & ask...Of course, until they have it, there likely isn't anyway to know whether or not it was a "gray" market item either...That said, a common repair like replacing the grease wouldn't involve any Nikon specific parts either...There is a UHH member that does repairs... Riggins is his name. Here is a link to his website...

http://www.discountcamerarepair.com/. He would likely be cheaper than Nikon anyway.

:thumbup:

jerrypoller Loc: Huntington, NY

LeoB wrote:

I've had this push/pull lens a long time. Bought it originally with an N-70. I've always enjoyed using it. The build is quite robust, all metal. The push/pull does have a bit of friction to it, but I find mine smooth. I'm assuming you bought yours used. If it does seem to stick, it may need some servicing. It's a great piece if glass, you're going to enjoy it.

I'm already impressed with it - it's the lower range replacement for my 18-300 f3.5-5.6 sf-s vr - the other half is a 70-200 f2.8 d.

Screamin Scott Loc: Marshfield Wi, Baltimore Md, now Dallas Ga

It was one of the more expensive "Pro" lenses back in it's day

jerrypoller wrote:

I'm already impressed with it - it's the lower range replacement for my 18-300 f3.5-5.6 sf-s vr - the other half is a 70-200 f2.8 d.

jerrypoller Loc: Huntington, NY

Screamin Scott wrote:

It was one of the more expensive "Pro" lenses back in it's day

Since graduating from the original kit lenses, and then the 18-200 f3.5-5.6 and then the 18-300 f3.5-5.6, I'm blown away by the sharpness and speed of the f2.8 zooms.
BTW - anyone familiar with what lubricant and how to apply it to the zoom ring? I'd give it a try myself if I got a little direction.

Leon S Loc: Minnesota

I have a 35-70 2.8 and it is very smooth. Check to see that there are no small dents in the body. When I buy used, I insist on condition. That includes surface wear on the outside of the body. Mainly use it on a DX camera when I do use it. It makes a good throw down if I'm in a tough part of town. Just have to remind myself that it isn't a twist movement to extend. For the range it covers it is a very good oldie but goody.

jerrypoller Loc: Huntington, NY

Leon S wrote:

I have a 35-70 2.8 and it is very smooth. Check to see that there are no small dents in the body. When I buy used, I insist on condition. That includes surface wear on the outside of the body. Mainly use it on a DX camera when I do use it. It makes a good throw down if I'm in a tough part of town. Just have to remind myself that it isn't a twist movement to extend. For the range it covers it is a very good oldie but goody.

No dents or visible distortions. And it's as smooth as glass beyond the 35mm and 70mm extremes. Just a little "grab" as I try and start the movement from the focal length ends. I'd just put a dab of gun grease on it if I was sure it couldn't contaminate the glass.

Leon S Loc: Minnesota

jerrypoller wrote:

No dents or visible distortions. And it's as smooth as glass beyond the 35mm and 70mm extremes. Just a little "grab" as I try and start the movement from the focal length ends. I'd just put a dab of gun grease on it if I was sure it couldn't contaminate the glass.

I had a 50mm lubed by a repair shop and he used 3 in one oil. He stated that you just need to use a light high grade of oil. and very light application. I'm just kind of guessing now but I think there is a rubber or leather weather seal in the lens that may have dried out to the point of needing lubrication. It would seem a good idea to call Nikon and ask if you can do what I suggested.