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Help! SMC Pentax-A 400mm f/5.6 showing signs of fungus

prsjnb
Posted 28/01/2022 - 20:33 Link
Checking lens today prior to packing for a trip to the Norfolk coast when I observed definite signs of a fungal infection (5-6 germinated spores on internal elements; can't tell precisely which). Would appreciate members thoughts on the following possible courses of action bearing in mind that I'm disinclined to attempt disassembly and cleaning myself.

1, Have the lens professionally cleaned and serviced in the UK (recommendations and contact details appreciated)

2, Entrust to a willing forum member with the confidence/equipment/experience needed to perform the task as a service and at an agreed price.

3, Accept that unlikely to be economical to have cleaned (whether professionally or by a willing forum member) and advertise for sale (auction) making clear that the lens has fungus.

Many thanks in anticipation.

Jon
PRYorkshire
Posted 28/01/2022 - 20:40 Link
I had an FA 50mm f1.7 lens cleaned of fungus by Asahi Photo around 15 years ago and it is still clean today, so can definitely recommend them. www.asahiphoto.co.uk
Paul

K1000, Espio 140, ist, istD, K70, K3iii and numerous lenses, just don't tell my wife.
womble
Posted 28/01/2022 - 22:33 Link
I get all my lens repairs done by this chap: http://www.cam-rep.co.uk/. He has done a few lenses for me including my 43mm lens and all have been very reasonable and excellently done. He will give an approx quote by email.
Kris Lockyear
It is an illusion that photos are made with the camera… they are made with the eye, heart and head. Henri Cartier-Bresson
Lots of film bodies, a couple of digital ones, too many lenses (mainly older glass) and a Horseman LE 5x4.
prsjnb
Posted 14/02/2022 - 12:25 Link
Thanks to you both, Paul and Kris, but neither of the parties mentioned are willing to take on the challenge

Since last posting I have removed the visible fungus from the outer surface of the rear element and irradiated the lens interior with short-wave UV light in order to inhibit/prevent further growth. It does appear, however, that one or more of the internal elements have been affected, albeit lightly at this time.

Whilst remaining open to further suggestions regarding professional cleaning, if anyone fancies taking on the lens (which is otherwise in fine condition) as a project with a view to keeping it when cleaned, please don't hesitate to drop me a line.
davidwozhere
Posted 15/02/2022 - 01:25 Link
Here is as far as I got researching this one link
Both the *istDS and the K5 are incurably addicted to old glass

My page on Photocrowd

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