Nikon 35-70 zoom lens repair

[MarkS]

Recently I picked up an AF-Nikkor 35-70mm 1:2.8 D lens. it was an absolute bargain, in fine physical shape with clean glass. However, the zoom function only goes from 35mm-50mm. And while the macro button on the zoom ring can be depressed, it will not turn to the 'macro' position. There is no physical damage or wear to suggest that it has been dropped- although that is the most likely scenario.
Does anyone have any experience or insight on this? And/or experience with this lens? If it's worthwhile to do so, I'll send it to Nippon Photo Clinic for repair. But I don't want to "throw good money after bad".

 

[Andreas Thaler]

It could be that bearings in the zoom mechanism have broken and are blocking it.

Similar here

Tokina RMC 25-50/4: Zoom blockage fixed, plain bearings replaced, helicoids greased

This Tokina Zoom with a connection for Minolta MD came to me for just EUR 10,-. Externally in beautiful condition, but with a blocked zoom ring and severe lens clouding. I wanted to see what I could achieve. Decorative ring off After partial dismantling I saw the cause of the blockage...

www.photrio.com

 

[Andreas Thaler]

This zoom lens often has clouding issues, which may not be remedied. A check with the LED light will provide some insight.

Richard reviews this lens:

Repair: AF Zoom-Nikkor 35-70mm f/2.8D

Hello, everybody! Do you know the song “My Boy” by Elvis Presley? This is a masterpiece, it’s about a father trying to keep his family together despite his hardships with his part…

richardhaw.com

 

[RalphLambrecht]

Recently I picked up an AF-Nikkor 35-70mm 1:2.8 D lens. it was an absolute bargain, in fine physical shape with clean glass. However, the zoom function only goes from 35mm-50mm. And while the macro button on the zoom ring can be depressed, it will not turn to the 'macro' position. There is no physical damage or wear to suggest that it has been dropped- although that is the most likely scenario.
Does anyone have any experience or insight on this? And/or experience with this lens? If it's worthwhile to do so, I'll send it to Nippon Photo Clinic for repair. But I don't want to "throw good money after bad".

It's worth it. There is an older version of the 35-70mm but it was f/3.3-4.5. a pretty crapy lens and not worth it. Go for it, and I hope it's not too expensive.

 

[Wolfram Malukker]

There is also a version of the 35-70mm that is a fixed F3.5, and it is very good.

 

[RalphLambrecht]

There is also a version of the 35-70mm that is a fixed F3.5, and it is very good.

let's hope, this applies to the OP's lens too.He talked about an f/2.8

 

[MarkS]

Per Andreas Thaler's comment (thank you sir), I shone a light through the lens- there is some obvious haze. So it's likely a paperweight.
But I'd forgotten that there is a Nikon dealer/repair shop here in Tucson. When next I go that way I'll show it to them; if they say it's not worth repairing, I'll donate it to them for parts.