Reducer Stuck

[hatflyer]

The reducer that screws into the scope is too tight to unscrew. Any ideas on that? It's odd because I'm the 1 who screwed it in, but now I can't unscrew it.

Thanks.

[Juno16]

I haven’t had that issue (yet), but I’ve heard that it is a common problem. I’ve read that a small strap wrench works well (if you can find one small enough).
Hopefully someone will join in and share their experiences.

[Petrol]

Large diameter threads are notorious for locking themselves on. Try warming it gently with a hair dryer. Don't go mad though because the glass is often cemented in. A bit of heat and as Jim says a strap wrench is the way to go. If you use anything like pliers you run the risk of damaging the reducer.
It's a pain, got the T shirt and cap on this one!
HTH
Good luck

Pete

[AstroBee]

+1 for the strap wrench. I carry one in my astro tool kit.
If you don't have one handy but happen to have a rubbery mouse pad, they can be used to grip it too.

[gregl]

The mouse pad would be a good first option. Camera repair folks have wrenches designed for this and it might be worth it to find someone with such a tool rather than risk damage. They are avail. on Ebay; they are different for each diameter. Here's what they look like:

[SkyHiker]

The freezer worked for me. In my case it was just metal on metal, no optics. I don't know if the freezer would harm the optics, I suppose telescopes are used in freezing weather too.

[OzEclipse]

Sometimes, the force you apply, distorts the ring and binds it. A neoprene or nitrile glove for grip, fingers all the way around and undo with extra grip from rubber but minimum force. Also use a hair drier to heat the outer ring. This will make it expand.

Joe

[sdbodin]

I have been using the 'rubber shoe sole' method lately as strap wrench, freezers, hair dryers, soft jaws, etc. have failed. Basically, find your softest sole shoes and jam the stuck ring face first onto the sole and twist. Hasn't fail me yet.

Good luck,
Steve

P.S. My rubber flip-flops seem to work well.

[JayTee]

find your softest sole shoes and jam the stuck ring face first onto the sole and twist. Hasn't failed me yet.

That is so "retro" it's awesome. I will remember and use this method! I'm sure any one of my old "flip flops" will be perfect for this.

[Jockinireland]

find your softest sole shoes and jam the stuck ring face first onto the sole and twist. Hasn't failed me yet.

That is so "retro" it's awesome. I will remember and use this method! I'm sure any one of my old "flip flops" will be perfect for this.

retro it may be but I too have found it to be the only fail-safe option. And yes, flipflops are perfect!! Which is great because i dont have any other use for flip-flops in the West of Ireland!!