[VictorDA]

Dear friends,
I got a very good deal (too good to pass) on a well-used FA*24mm.
So far I like the output of the lens and it works well in AF mode despite quite a bit of dust in the rear group.

However, I have a problem with the focusing ring when in "Manual" position:
Each time I reach the end of the focus scale there is a very soft stop (much lighter than on any DA lens I know; in fact it is only barey noticeable) and then it is really difficult to get the focus ring to "engage" again and drag the focus back within the scale. More often than not, I need to play with the clutch mechanism and/or squeeze the barrel quite hard while turning back. I'm not sure if that is clear?
For instance, focusing out, I will inadvertently go further than infinity with the ring; the scale and actual focus stay at infinity; and then turning back left, nothing happens and the lens stays stuck at infinity until I manage to re-engage it again. The same can happen at the close end of the scale.
Note that, as long as I stay within the scale, I have usually no issues at all. And AF has no problem at all either.

Does that ring a bell with anyone? Is that a common issue on FA*s with their "elaborate" mechanism? Is there a known fix?
Thanks

[cnarchitect]

I would advise to keep away from FA*24. It uses glued AL glasses. When the time is coming, I guess it is about 20 years. Many became to being hazed and it is irreversible. I had two examples but has the issue. One I had for 20 years from NEW.

[AfterPentax Mark II]

I got a very good deal (too good to pass) on a well-used FA*24mm.

It actually is not such a good deal as you thought and if I were you I would return it to the seller and ask the money back.

[pschlute]

I would advise to keep away from FA*24. It uses glued AL glasses. When the time is coming, I guess it is about 20 years. Many became to being hazed and it is irreversible. I had two examples but has the issue. One I had for 20 years from NEW.

Sample variation ?

Mine is 30 years old and is as good as new.

[RobA_Oz]

It sounds like the issue is with the clutch mechanism on your copy. Having never pulled any of my FA* lenses apart, I can’t be specific about it, but I’d guess that there’s some wear within it. It may be adjustable to account for the wear, assuming that’s what it is, but unless you’re fairly confident about doing it yourself, I’d take it to a competent lens technician for their assessment.

[UncleVanya]

Don’t use manual focus until you line up time to address the issue?

[VictorDA]

Don’t use manual focus until you line up time to address the issue?

That is my current approach, and as I said I am fairly satisfied with the lens under these circumstances.
I just asked here in case someone had experienced a similar issue, but so far I guess not.
Thanks!

[Digitalis]

My copy of the FA*24mm f/2 had a centering issue that went unnoticed for years until I brought it out for comparison with the DFA21mm f/2.4 Limited, According to my technician it was a fairly easy fix.

ach time I reach the end of the focus scale there is a very soft stop (much lighter than on any DA lens I know; in fact it is only barey noticeable) and then it is really difficult to get the focus ring to "engage" again and drag the focus back within the scale.

There might be damage to the gearing mechanism by the sound of your description.


The AF gearing on Pentax lenses seems to be fairly robust, my FA77 developed a crack in the gear train only after 10+ years of ownership and it developed what I would call a soft "bump" over which the AF drive refused to pass. With the exception of the cracked gear, the rest of the mechanism was in pretty good shape: