Access front elements on chrome Canon 50mm f1.8 LTM rangefinder lens

[Michael Finder]

I have a chrome Canon 50mm f1.8 rangefinder lens LTM in excellent cosmetic condition. There is slight edge fungus on the rear of the front element. I can't work out how to access the front element to clean it. Everything on the interweb shows rear elements and the newer black 50mm lenses. Any help greatly appreciated.

 

[AgX]

There seems nothing special to it. You have to twist off that designation ring and likely you will find under it a retainer ring with slits for a tool.

 

[Michael Finder]

I used some rigid electrical conduit with an end diameter of 35mm, applied some masking tape around the edge and hey presto ... I was able to remove the front ring quite easily.