Noisy Mamiya Sekor C 50mm f/4.5

[gcoates]

I recently purchased a Mamiya Sekor C 50mm f/4.5 lens (for a Mamiya RB67) from eBay. I received the lens last week, and the glass is clean and the body has a few scratches as described. The lens seems to function as expected, but when I don't have the lens on the camera, if I rotate it--either end to end or turning it like I would if I were to screw it onto a camera--it makes a clunking or rattling sound. Can anyone else who owns this lens tell me if this is expected for this lens type? Or did I end up with a dud lens that I should attempt to return?

 

[shutterfinger]

If turning it as if installing it or gentle shake results in a rattle something is loose internally. No camera lens I've handled has a rattle/clunk from the factory unless there's a defect.
Check the shutter speeds, if they're in tolerance then it may be minor mechanical such as a loose screw or a loose element but if they're off return it.
https://www.manualslib.com/manual/1015573/Mamiya-Rb-67-Pro-S.html pdf page 65 shows the 50mm f4.5 lens assembly and instructions. Download the manual, study the disassembly/assembly instructions and try to identify the cause.

 

[Theo Sulphate]

Just went upstairs to try this. Mine makes a very gentle slight clicking or slight rattle -- definitely not the clunking of lens elements and my lens is fine. So if yours sounds like that, I wouldn't worry.

 

[paul ron]

you probably hear the ball bearings rattling around, thats normal.

hold the back of the lens barrel in one hand and try wiggeling the front of the barrel? check the black retaining ring around the rear cell to be sure its snug?

 

[gcoates]

The noise is definitely more of a clicking or rattle than a solid clunk. Nothing seems to be loose, at least nothing on the outside of the lens.

I'm thinking I'll shoot some pictures with the lens and take a look at the results before I make a final decision.

Thanks for the feedback, everyon!