EXAKTA - Exakta Zeiss Biotar 58mm f2 Disassembly

This comprehensive disassembly and repair guide walks through the complete restoration of the Zeiss Biotar 58mm f/2 lens designed for Exakta camera systems. The manual presents a methodical approach to servicing this highly regarded German optical design, grounded in direct hands-on experience restoring severely compromised examples. The workshop manual is organized in two main sections. The first covers the focus and release assembly, detailing removal of the release button, extraction of spanner rings, and the intricate reassembly of the focus helicals—a notoriously demanding procedure where precise starting points and alignment techniques are critical to success. The guide provides clear reference mark positioning instructions and troubleshooting advice for common issues like stuck release mechanisms and binding aperture blades. The second section addresses the optical assembly, explaining access to and cleaning of front and rear lens elements with careful attention to proper element orientation and fungus removal. Throughout, the manual specifies appropriate lubricants (Nyogel, graphite, Molykote) and demonstrates spanner wrench techniques for safe disassembly and reassembly. Detailed procedures ensure accurate infinity focus adjustment through spacer ring management and correct assembly sequencing. Reference photographs support each critical step, making this repair manual an invaluable resource for anyone servicing this classic lens.