ND filters

Marandmar said:
Got two filters stuck together, don't know how to unscrew them now. Any help? Thanks.
Click to expand...

I assume you mean "Screwed tightly together"?

Get yourself a pair of latex gloves - it's usually your grip that's the problem! Failing that a couple of rubber bands around the extremities.
 
The application of a quick blast of either heat or cold to one side may also help - expansion and contraction.
 
The problem is how to apply enough force to move the tight threads without at the same time producing enough squeezing shape changing force to lock the threads tighter together. The worst are big filter rings which are more easily deformed. What you want is a way of applying circular unscrewing force evenly at all points around the circumference with no sideways squeezing at all. A rubber mat, or even better the stronger and grippier silicone heat proof rubber mats you can get in good kitchenware shops is the solution. Push the stuck filter ring vertically down into the mat and then turn. It's surpringhly easy!
 
Get a pair of shoes with flat, smoothish rubber soles/heels & lay the filters flat between them & gently add pressure while turning in opposite directions.
 
This is going to sound stupid, but if you tap around the rim of the filters on a table, it will often free them up so they can be unscrewed. Sounds even worse when I read it back, but tapping them against a rock or similar when out in the field, has got me out of trouble several times.
No substitute for the proper wrenches though :)
 
Place one on a cloth and then turn the top one.. I have also placed the bottom filter in a tray of hot water (just deep enough to cover the lower filter )
 
Good quality plastic cable ties can often do the trick
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top