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Universal Polarizing Filter Squeaks


lm_user

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Just purchased a used universal polarizing filter. Filter squeaks when rotating the polarizer to desired angle. Any suggestions for smoother and quieter operation? Suggestions for a lubricant?

 

Thanks

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Do NOT use powdered lubricant. It is horribly invasive and can migrate to the lens surface. It is very difficult to remove.

 

On a large brass lens I use for LF, I put a drop of Goo-Gone in the threads and worked the threads. It removed the bit of oxidation and dust and now turns very nicely. I look forward to other suggestions.

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Hello Im_user,

 

Sometimes if a polarizing filter sits for a long time the lubricants congeal.

 

In many instances it is like a camera or lens that sat for a time period without being used where: Simply operating all parts in all manners possible spreads around lubricants and wears away fine build up of oxides so the polarizing filter, lens or camera go back to operating the way they are supposed to.

 

Best regards,

 

Michael 

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Yesterday I tried Michaels advice (thanks)and exercised the polarizer during the hockey game. This was marginally helpful - but not what I had hoped for.

 

I also took Pico's advice and avoided a powder lubricant (thanks also)

 

Later, I spoke with Tobey (another forum member) and he recommended Ronsonol lighter fluid. I applied it with a 1/2 size paint brush between the mating rotating surfaces being careful to avoid the filter edges The brush fit very well and all squeaks were gone for a while. The theory was that the solvent would soften the old lubricant (apparently this has worked on focusing mechanisms of older lenses). Well unfortunately the blissfully smooth and quiet operation ended after the lighter fluid evaporated.

 

I will have to try another approach tomorrow

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  • 2 weeks later...

Applied silicone grease (Automotive di-electric grease to be precise). Squeak is gone. Operation is mostly smooth. Still a couple of tighter spots but much less noticible. I think grease is a little too thick but it feels nice to use.

 

BTW I don't think the di-electric properties are required ;)

 

Took some snaps today. Filter does a great job of eliminating reflections - just like it is supposed to!

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