Sticky zoom

[olyduck]

I have an old Canon EF 28-105 that I use on my 40D.  The lens performs fine, except the zooming ring binds up a bit (like something is dry or rubbing).  I still have access to to full zoom range, but would like to make the zooming action a little smoother.  The dumb part of me says that a small drop of some type of lubricant on the barrel (when it is zoomed out oll the way) might help, but I have not acted upon that impulse.

Any ideas?

Thanks,
Dave

[Bob Atkins]

It would probably do the trick but the danger is that if you use too much oil (or use a volatile oil), some of it could work its way into the lens and end up on the elements.

If you try it, use the smallest possible amount of oil.

Of course the proper way to do it would be to take the lens apart, but that's likely to be more work than the problem deserves - and getting it back together right may also be a problem.

If you can live with it, I'd live with it. If you can't, then the smallest drop of a low volatility lubricant. I would not use WD-40 for example.