Stiff zoom ring on nikon 20-35 f/2.8: I'm watching a Nikon 20-35 f/2.8 D lens on eBay and would like to bid on it. Trouble is the seller reports that the zoom ring is "kinda stiff"...

jerrypoller Loc: Huntington, NY

I'm watching a Nikon 20-35 f/2.8 D lens on eBay and would like to bid on it. Trouble is the [100% positive feedback] seller reports that the zoom ring is "kinda stiff" from 28-35, but otherwise the lens functions perfectly (focus, IQ, color, glass, etc.). I asked him if it had ever been dropped and he responded, "I laid on the ground doing the shooting and accidentally dragging my camera against the ground when I moved". These old lenses were built like tanks, and the price looks like it will be in the $250 range when the auction is over. I could live with a stiff zoom since any wide angle shooting I would be doing won't be "action" photography where I need to make fast adjustments in focal distance. At the $250 price range, would you take the chance?

Leon S Loc: Minnesota

I just got my Nikon 17-35 fixed at Nikon USA and the price for repair came to $320. $320 + $250 = $570. What can you buy for $600. The 20-35 is a nice lens if working properly especially on a fx camera, but not wide enough as far as I am concerned on a dx camera. We have one and don't use it all that often. Just like real estate, location, location, location, with lenses condition, condition, condition.

Leitz Loc: Solms

jerrypoller wrote:

I'm watching a Nikon 20-35 f/2.8 D lens on eBay an... (show quote)

I would pass. Repairs can be expensive.

jerrypoller Loc: Huntington, NY

Leitz wrote:

I would pass. Repairs can be expensive.

So, I guess what I'm thinking is why get it repaired? If I can live with a stiff zoom ring, should that be a show stopper. Or, does it portend more serious problems, like the zoom freezing up altogether.

Leitz Loc: Solms

jerrypoller wrote:

So, I guess what I'm thinking is why get it repaired? If I can live with a stiff zoom ring, should that be a show stopper. Or, does it portend more serious problems, like the zoom freezing up altogether.

It could. Or perhaps the elements could be misaligned. If not, you may be OK. I would recommend you get a good return policy, in case. It is an excellent lens, well made, and the price isn't bad. Only you can decide. Good luck!

Macronaut Loc: Redondo Beach,Ca.

Return policy is usually 14 days, unless otherwise stated. Ask if the filter threads are bent. The seller seems to be very forth coming with details.

jerrypoller Loc: Huntington, NY

Flyextreme wrote:

Return policy is usually 14 days, unless otherwise stated. Ask if the filter threads are bent. The seller seems to be very forth coming with details.

I asked about a return option and the reply didn't address my request - a little disappointing, but probably for the best. I'll wait for a fully functional listing and hope I'm the successful bidder.

Leitz Loc: Solms

jerrypoller wrote:

I asked about a return option and the reply didn't address my request - a little disappointing, but probably for the best. I'll wait for a fully functional listing and hope I'm the successful bidder.

The fact that the lens was dragged along the ground is cause for much alarm. Note that it is of a complex internal zoom and focus design - if any dirt has gotten very deep inside it could cause quite serious problems indeed. I think you are wise to pass. Few who have this lens will part with it - I wish you well in your search. :)

jerrypoller Loc: Huntington, NY

Leitz wrote:

The fact that the lens was dragged along the ground is cause for much alarm. Note that it is of a complex internal zoom and focus design - if any dirt has gotten very deep inside it could cause quite serious problems indeed. I think you are wise to pass. Few who have this lens will part with it - I wish you well in your search. :)

Thanks. Over the last year, I found an 80-200 /f2.8, and a 35-70 f/2.8 - both built like tanks and sharp as tacks. I just need the "tank" version of the 20-35 f/2.8 now to have the old [poor man's] holy trinity.

Leitz Loc: Solms

jerrypoller wrote:

Thanks. Over the last year, I found an 80-200 /f2.8, and a 35-70 f/2.8 - both built like tanks and sharp as tacks. I just need the "tank" version of the 20-35 f/2.8 now to have the old [poor man's] holy trinity.

Those 3 lenses may get their socks knocked off by the new ones in pictures of wall charts, but for "real world" photography, there will be scarcely any noticeable differences.

jerrypoller Loc: Huntington, NY

Leitz wrote:

Those 3 lenses may get their socks knocked off by the new ones in pictures of wall charts, but for "real world" photography, there will be scarcely any noticeable differences.

That's been my experience with the two I already have - and at a fraction of the price of the newer glass available today.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

jerrypoller wrote:

So, I guess what I'm thinking is why get it repaired? If I can live with a stiff zoom ring, should that be a show stopper. Or, does it portend more serious problems, like the zoom freezing up altogether.

That's what I'm thinking. you know it's not going to get better, and whatever is causing the sticking could lead to other problems.

authorizeduser Loc: Monroe, Michigan

Leitz wrote:

I would pass. Repairs can be expensive.

I agree with Leitz. There is a reason the lens is stiff. Excessive wear, dirt, misalignment or has the lens been dropped? The lens may stay working in its current condition, then again it may fail. Repairs may put you in the same neighborhood as a brand new lens. I would not take the risk.

*** Be Afraid, Be Very Afraid *** :thumbdown:

rjriggins11 Loc: Colorado Springs, CO

Hi. My name is Rick. Im the owner and lead technician at Discount Camera Repair and a member in good standing here at the UHH. Ive been doing repairs for other members here at greatly discounted rates and would be glad to help.

I'd be more than happy to repair the lens for you and keep the cost as low as possible. If youre interested, please respond by private message or simply reply to this post.

cjc2 Loc: Hellertown PA

My personal opinion is that you are looking for a used lens you are far better off dealing with the ABCs than e-bay. While you can get a great deal on e-bay, you can also get taken. For example, if the lens is non-usa, Nikon will not even look at it. KEH is also a great source for used! Again, personally, I would not touch this lens.