tokina at-x 28-85 mf: how to stiffen focus

[kingbuzzie]

I bought a tokina 28-85 fd lens off of fleabay, very clean. The problem is there isn't enough focus damper. No resistance at all, and I hate it. Is there anyone who has tinkered with this lens?

 

[BMbikerider]

If you feel you are competent enough then the lens barrel can be partially dismantled and the helicoid focusing grooves can be lubricated with a dedicated type of grease which will stiffen the focusing action. Be aware if you decide to do this many focusing systems have multi start threads so make a note where the lens finally comes apart or you will find the original focusing points are way out of kilter.

Otherwise a good repair shop should be able to to it for you at a minimal cost.

 

[John Koehrer]

^^^What he said. A bit more advice would be to NOT go nuts with grease, it really doesn't take that much, just enough =P

 

[AgX]

And yes, too low or too strong damping is a common issue.

I once was offered three identical zoom lenses, all for the same price, and I took the one with a scratch in the front lens, as it got the just right low damping for my use. I rather coped with that scratch than to regrease the barrel.

 

[kingbuzzie]

Well it turns out when I put in on a camera, the focus was way off. Once I got it open the threads were very dry. I put some superlube grease on there and it feels great now.