My first lens dissembly, tips?

[pluton]

Based on the 85/1.4 Ais and 135/2 Ais that I have partially disassembled, the scotch tape can be removed no problem.  Make sure you have fresh tape on hand to replace it when you reassemble. I used the tough Scotch Package Sealing Tape.  Use magnified live view to re-calibrate infinity focus.  Remember that for a normal or tele lens, Infinity = 3 miles, 5 miles away, not across the street.
As an alternative to buying[and waiting for delivery of] new screwdrivers, you can file down an existing screwdriver.  I have many "junk" so-called jeweler's screwdrivers that I can sacrifice.  Those small slot screws need a very close fit as much as the cross headed screws need the exact fit of JIS screwdrivers.

[Tristin]

Regarding the tape, do I need to remove it to get to the helicoid inside the focus ring?  I'd rather not unless necessary.  Of course, i do not know how to gain access to this helicoid, which is my current problem.

As for the screwdriver, I'd like to just purchase one that fits as i don't want to chance stripping such a tiny and buried screw.  Hoping someone knows, otherwise I'm gonna order a 1.5mm and give it a whirl.

[richardHaw]

you can safely remove that.

read this to see how and what the tape is used for
http://richardhaw.com/2016/01/30/project-zoom-nikkor-80-200mm-f4-ai-s/

[Tristin]

So it is only covering the shims?  Ok.  I ordered a 1.5mm and a 1.2mm slot screwdriver from micro-tools and will give it a go as soon as they arrive.  I'll let you guys know which worked best. 

Not looking forward to getting the helicoids together! 

[richardHaw]

its just to keep the focusing ring together. 

dont lose hope. if i did it with the 200mm f/4 Ai-s on my first try then you can do it as well

[Tristin]

I find that pretty shocking that only scotch tape holds them together.  i wondered what the screw I just ordered screwdrivers is for.

[Jan Anne]

Don't use the milky white Scotch tape, its so slippery that the rubber focus ring slips instead of focussing the lens 

Good luck btw, been there with the helicoids and it can become frustrating.

Just grap a beer to calm the nerves and stabilise the hands 

[Tristin]

Thanks Jan.  The 105mm being one of the only two lenses I own, it is quite the nervous situation!  A beer will come in handy.   

[richardHaw]

did you take pictures of the helicoid before you separate it? 

[Tristin]

No, I had no idea they could be put together in several incorrect manners.  I have accepted the hours of trial and error to come.    Live and learn.  I think that when I do get it right, I will make sure to make a small nick in the paint for the future.

[richardHaw]

did you watch the video that i posted on page 1? i watched it again and it is all that you need to get that thing back together. 

[Tristin]

I did not.  I obviously should have done more preparation instead of diving in blind.  Too cocky I guess.    I will certainly be going through your blog while I wait on the screwdrivers.  Many thanks Richard, I owe you!

[richardHaw]

daitocamera's video is in Japanese but even with the audio off you can still pick up what he is trying to do 

[Tristin]

Oh . . . my.  I somehow missed that link, at first I thought you meant on the first page of your blog . . . have you ever looked around for something you "couldn't find", only to realize it was in your hand while you searched . . . that's me right now!

[Tristin]

Well, good and bad news.  i decided to take the tape off, and it exposed the helicoid I was trying to get to!  Bad part, is did not thinking of making a measurement with my caliper before doing so.  Which I should have.  There is no shim however, so I am hoping the two parts simply fit snug.