Nikon PC-E teleconverter modification (24/45/85mm)
PC-E Teleconverter modification / hack
Using Nikon teleconverters with 24/45/85mm PC-E lenses
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After finishing my recent review of the Nikon 45mm PC-E lens, I discovered that the Nikon range of teleconverters (1.4x, 1.7x, 2.0x) simply won’t fit the the older Nikon PC-E 24mm / 45mm / 85mm PC-E lenses.
PC-E teleconverter hack for Nikon tilt/shift lenses?
It seems that there is a small tab on the lens side of the TC that stops PC-E teleconverter use by making the lens mounts incompatible.
Given that the mount (the ring with four screws) is made of plated brass. It’s actually quite easy to file off the lug.
F mount lenses that do officially work with the converter have a notch in the corresponding position.
Do note that like with many modern teleconverters, there is a lens element mounted proud of the flange. This needs to fit into the lens being attached. The Nikon F mount is also a relatively small one and the TC can exacerbate vignetting at strong shift.
I’ve not tested this, since the kit I had was loaned by Nikon UK and I don’t think they would appreciate me filing bits off. So try this at your own risk! I’ve seen it mentioned on several forums as working just fine.
A few notes on doing this yourself…
- Don’t file off the lug in situ – metal filings and lenses do not mix well. Remove the ring first.
- Make sure to use a proper JIS crosshead screwdriver – Pozidrive or Philips may damage the head, since the screws may well have some thread locking compound.
- If the screws are stiff – this may be the first time they’ve been moved since original assembly – a few drops of Acetone on each, left for an hour or so may soften any locking compound. Did I mention using the right screwdriver!
- Normal use of the converter is unaffected, just its likely 2nd hand value ;-)
Here’s an example of a modified converter [from DPR]
Photo courtesy of Tony Arnerich – who has modified all his TCs
Why use teleconverters with tilt/shift lenses?
I regularly use a Canon 1.4x III converter to give me a ~35mm focal length with my TS-E24mm. Quality is excellent. I’ve two articles about using teleconverters with tilt/shift
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