I've heard that Schneider recommends removing the front element but then there's the dust aspect. solution? but since the two lenses are supposed to be"symmetrical", couldn't the rear element be removed with similar effect and no threat of dust on the shutter blades?
Just experiment. I used a symmar like that now and then, and I think I used it the "wrong" way with success. I think indeed it was the front you are supposed to remove. Dust isn't going to hurt it, the shutter is likely older than you, and may out-last you. Just put a cap or the front elements back on when you are done.
schneider's website has information about removing the element.
you will notice it takes well more than 265mm to focus at infinity converted
its because the nodal point where the lens focuses is far-back. some people who have shorter bellows
( or want more bellows to work with ) remove the rear ( element which supposedly won't make the same focal length
as removing the front element from what i understand ) and it shifts the nodal point closer to the lens.
i have removed booth on my 210/370 .. it didn't make that much of a difference in focal length or nodal point ...
I've heard that Schneider recommends removing the front element but then there's the dust aspect. solution? but since the two lenses are supposed to be"symmetrical", couldn't the rear element be removed with similar effect and no threat of dust on the shutter blades?
I take the front element off and then put it back to move on. It seems to work well and it is a lot more convenient to do so as the lens lives mounted on the camera (MPP Mk VII) because it folds away inside and so lives in metal caged safety.