Mamiya RB645 127mm K/L F/3.5 lens with an issue

[moggi1964]

I picked up this lens from WYC with the intention of taking it apart to clean the glass. However, I am struggling at the first hurdle: getting the bottom cap off!!!

I know that the release ring sits at the bottom of the lens but it refuses to move and I don't want to force it. I have considered drilling two holes opposite each other in the side of the lens cap and inserting a metal rod to use leverage. Thing I would like to know is:

for those who know the K/L lenses, is this likely to work?

Ta.

 

[Cannyekerslike]

Hi,
The cap is locked on by the ring if, it has been fitted correctly when it was fitted. My RB lenses can stick like this at times. I use a towel wrapped round the ring to give it a bit more leverage.

 

[moggi1964]

Thank you. You gave me the confidence to try a bit harder. A little additional effort resulted in it coming apart.

Just took the lens elements out and cleaned them up with Hydrogen Peroxide and lighter fluid. Not a sign of haze or fungus left.

Made sure to clean the elements that hold the lenses too just to be extra sure.

 

[Cannyekerslike]

Hi again,
Good on you for standing up to it. When first used a RB67 I was a bit intimidated, so big and heavy. Great cameras.......