An old dog needs new threads - 17-35mm f/2.8

As the title suggests...or maybe doesn't, I got this lens at a bargain price (like really bargain), but as you can see from the provided photo, it has seen better days. The AF/MF switch is missing, but the autofocus is fast and precise (tested on 1Ds Mark II and 6D), optically it's as sharp as it should be (and bad in the corners, as it should be). BUT, the thing that worries me is that the lens is wide open to environmental factors, which is what I am worried about (dust, etc.).

So far I have been unable to precisely determine whether I can use a switch from another lens to cover the hole up (it doesn't have to be functional). I'm guessing the one from the 17-40 will fit, but so far I have been unable to find anyone selling just the AF/MF switch. The question I'm asking you guys, is whether you can direct me in the proper direction of finding something to cover this hole up. I'm guessing someone will have some kind of advice.

The second thing is the distance scale window (or cover), which is, as you can see - missing.

If anyone can provide any insight (or advice for that matter) I would greatly appreciate it.

Thanks in advance!

Simples. Some tape. I had to replace this bit after about 2 years.
For your situation I would cut a small piece plastic into the shape of the hole, look a bit neater and would work better, stop the tape collapsing into the hole and pulling the edges of the tape loose.

Yep, bits of electical tape over some sort of base would be my fix.

Thank you for your answers! What I was thinking is if anyone knows if I could use spares from some other lens? I'm guessing I'm gonna have to go with this solution for the AF/MF switch, but the distance scale window maybe can be used from some other model of lens?

Strahinja wrote in post #18591796
Thank you for your answers! What I was thinking is if anyone knows if I could use spares from some other lens? I'm guessing I'm gonna have to go with this solution for the AF/MF switch, but the distance scale window maybe can be used from some other model of lens?

You could buy some thin polycarbonate sheet (e.g. https://www.ebay.co.uk …ksid=p2141725.m​3641.l6368) and cut pieces of the right size. 1mm might be too thick, but I have seen it in 0.75mm thickness.

Make sure you get polycarbonate, as you can bend it. Acrylic will likely snap.

To hold it in place, a rubber-like metal/plastic/wood glue such as this (https://www.bostik.com …ucts/All-Purpose-adhesive) may work well. Superglue too, maybe.

looking at the part numbers from the part catalog, both affected parts appear unique to the 17-35mm L

e.g.

CY1-2702-000 = A/M switch assy

YA2-2415-000 = Scale, Depth of field

that's not to say you couldn't use something from another lens, but just the parts are listed as different.

If it helps any, I have a 16-35mm L that I can measure the scale window on to give you an idea if it's anything similar (I'm away from home until Monday evening though)

I still have an use this lens. But it can no longer be serviced by canon and when it breaks you will be screwed

Im getting the 16-35 F/4 IS this year

Thank you all for the answers, guess I'll just have to improvise.

Sploo, thanks so much for the suggestion, I will try to find the cover first, because I, unfortunately, suck at DIY.

Joseph, it would be kind if you would provide me the info, since I do not have access to a 16-35, thanks.

Umphotography, I know I'm playing around, and if this thing breaks it's gonna be a party. Nevertheless, my confidence in Canon is beginning to reach fanatical levels, thus I am willing to take the chance, and if something happens, I'll try to get it fixed at a local Canon specialist - thankfully, there is one.

Gorilla tape makes a clear waterproof tape you can place over the distance scale to act as a cover until you find a replacement.
Cut it to fit. Stuff lasts long and is very strong.
https://www.amazon.com …r-Tape-1-88/dp/B01MFDY41W

I'll keep that in mind, though I'll have to find some other source, since Amazon doesn't ship free to my Country...

sorry to take so long replying.

Measuring the scale window on the 16-35mm comes out to be pretty close to 14mm wide by 35mm long.

Here's a couple of shots of the window & also the af/manual switch if it helps any.

Hey, thanks for the answer. In the mean time I found a service near me that had a cover for the focusing scale from a 20-35. Unfortunately it is not a perfect fit, but it's better than it being open. Also I found the A/M switch on Aliexpress just by googling the part number, thanks!

Strahinja wrote in post #18600044
Hey, thanks for the answer. In the mean time I found a service near me that had a cover for the focusing scale from a 20-35. Unfortunately it is not a perfect fit, but it's better than it being open. Also I found the A/M switch on Aliexpress just by googling the part number, thanks!

very cool! hopefully it all comes together for you.