Replace or shrink zoom ring sleeve on Nikon 200-500mm lens

[eft]

Over time the rubber zoom ring sleeve on my 200-500mm lens has stretched and is quite loose. I've seen several other owners of this lens experience the same issue.

Has anyone tried to shrink the rubber sleeve by submerging in boiling water or heating with a hair dryer? Or, purchased a replacement sleeve from Nikon or a third-party?

 

[Butlerkid]

I would think heat would cause it to stretch or change shape. Maybe just put a thick wide tight rubber band (or 2) on it?

Or something like this?

 

[eft]

Thanks for the suggestions!

 

[Mark Garfinkel]

Wouldn't recommend heating with a hair dryer, you might heat up something you don't want to over heat. I'd call Nikon at 1-800-645-6687 and ask about a replacement.

 

[eft]

Wouldn't recommend heating with a hair dryer, you might heat up something you don't want to over heat. I'd call Nikon at 1-800-645-6687 and ask about a replacement.

I hope you didn't think I was going to heat it while on the lens!

I have been in touch with Nikon Canada and just got a quote for a replacement (~$40 CAD including taxes and shipping).

I had also asked Nikon to replace my rubber eye cup and the cover for my security port but they said the eye cup wasn't covered and I would have to send my camera in to have them replace the rubber cover under warranty, neither of which was great news.

 

[Warren D]

Heating rubber just makes it looser. Replacement cost seems reasonable.