[TIPS] Opening lens rings without slots: the Vacuum Pad Lens Opener
When there are no pits to grip
Most lens retaining rings have two small pits for a spanner. Many name rings and front rings do not, and that is where a pit-type opener is useless. The Vacuum Pad Lens Opener grips the ring by friction with a rubber pad instead, so you can unscrew it without leaving a mark. It is also handy for removing the decorative cover on the film-advance lever of a classic camera.
What is in the set
- Six pads, each usable on both sides, giving 12 diameters: 13 / 19 / 21 / 24 / 29 / 30 / 36 / 37 / 44 / 45 / 54 / 62 mm.
- Made in Japan.
- It is also included in our Old Lens maintenance tool kit 2.
Step by step
- Pick the pad whose diameter matches the ring you want to turn, and make sure both the pad and the ring are clean and dry.
- Press the pad squarely onto the ring and turn slowly counter-clockwise.
- Once the ring has loosened, finish unscrewing it by hand.
- Lift the freed glass element out with a suction tool rather than your fingers, so that no fingerprints end up inside the lens.
The key to repairing a camera yourself is never to force anything. If a ring will not move, stop and consult the shop where you bought the camera or lens.