Cost of 500mm lens to Nikon for cleaning?

I'd like to send my Nikon 500mm AFS lens back to Nikon for a general cleaning and calibration check. I've had the lens for some time now and feel at times that the focus could be sharper at the longer distances. I was wondering if anyone else has sent a similar lens back and what experience the've had? Any idea of the cost and turn around time? Any info would be helpful.

Thanks,
Bill

Bill,

I sent my 600mm AF-S in for reasons similar to yours. I also had a distinct grinding when focusing, and was convinced the "ultra sonic" motor was shot. The lens was checked, cleaned, and adjusted. It turns out that on its return, the same problem occured with my D2x. Sent in the camera, and had that serviced. The problem I had was actually camera related, but my lens was about eight years old, and a service was in order.

The lens was serviced well by Nikon Melville, and if my memory is accurate, it cost approx. $350.00. Turn around time was about two weeks, which seemed like years!

It might benefit you to send in both your camera, and lens, so both can be checked for compatibility, and a perfect adjustment.

Good luck.

Mark,

Thanks for the reply. I plan on calling Nikon tommorow to set it up. Did you notice any improvement in the lens afterwards?

Thanks again,

Bill

wjgarwood wrote:Mark,

Thanks for the reply. I plan on calling Nikon tommorow to set it up. Did you notice any improvement in the lens afterwards?

Thanks again,

Bill

Bill,

Big improvement, but since I also had my camera serviced, I can't say that the lens service alone was the fix. Two years and many clicks later, both are still perfect.