How to remove a stuck UV filter on an old lens?

DanF · 28 Nov 2011 at 14:07

I've just recieved a little super-tak 55/1.8 which seem to be lovely to use but it's come with an old UV filter attached. I've tried to take it off pretty hard but don't really want to damage anything in the process so any ideas on how to get it off?

Hodders · 28 Nov 2011 at 14:13

Do not try to break the filter glass... I've heard for front elements being scratched badly like that.

I did hear of a guy who used epoxy (araldite) glue and glue a ruler to it especially on the knurled edges. Let it set and then just unscrewed it. Don't use super glue as isocyanate will cloud glass.

Russinating · 28 Nov 2011 at 14:22

I'm not sure if this is likely to damage the lens but you could try running the filter under hot water. The metal surround should shrink slightly and make it easier to unscrew. Same process for unscrewing stubborn jar lids.

DanF · 28 Nov 2011 at 14:30

yeah the filter is an original asahi pentax made from alu so it could have been on their for years now.

DanF · 28 Nov 2011 at 14:31

oh wow this is quite funny, I just put it flat against my palm instead of gripping it by the edge and it came straight off

Cheers anyway

moogle · 28 Nov 2011 at 14:32

Russinating said:
The metal surround should shrink slightly and make it easier to unscrew. Same process for unscrewing stubborn jar lids.

Wouldn't that tighten the lid on the jar? Metal expands when it's heated, running it under cold water would contract the filter ring and loosen it's grip on the threads using that method.

Russinating · 28 Nov 2011 at 15:26

Yes sorry, I meant expand. But that loosens it on a jar

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Steeps · 28 Nov 2011 at 18:41

In future just wrap a rubber band around the filter, gives a lot more grip for less squeeze and filters are much easier to get off