ideas for replacing Tamron 17-50

ilbcnu

Well my trusted Tamron 17-50 has gone in to local repair and it seems to have some type of fungus in between elements that don't come apart. They have sent a fax to Tamron to see what the cost of the replacement piece is but haven't had any response as of yet. I did some researching on the internet and heck this seems to be a known problem. There is even one for sale on ebay with same thing being sold for parts as seller was told by Tamron it was a $300.00 repair. I liked this lens but am nervous about replacing it with the same now. Anyone have experience with & can recommend another similiar lens they like in the same price range (400.00ish)?
Thanks!!

FlyNavy

I love that lens!

ziggy53

I suggest pursuing this matter yourself, directly with Tamron. They will likely ask questions about exposure to rain and storage of the lens.

Fungus is one thing that Tamron does not warrant with their lenses, but there may be extenuating circumstances that allow warranty.

repair@tamron.com

Pupator

As I think you can tell from the other replys - the answer to your specific question is basically "no." There is a Sigma version of that lens that is about the same quality but it can vary widely from copy to copy. Some folks (Art) swear by Sigma. Many have sworn them off.

Your best bet is to try and get the copy you have fixed or, if it's not economical to replace it with the same lens or an updated version of the same lens. Most people who have had them love them.

ilbcnu

Thanks for the help! I decided to replace with the same--just couldn't find something else and I really like the lens. Insurance covered so giving it another try. Tamron did respond but replacement part nearly as much as new so not economical per my local shop.

mr peas

I must say, its my favorite lens. I think you can source a new or near-new one for around $350 now, maybe even less. I think its worth it, even if you buy it 2wice, you're still paying 2/3rds the price of the Canon IS counterpart.

I would however double-check to see the reason how you acquired fungus on your lens. Perhaps the area you're in is much more humid than others? It would be wise to invest in some dessicant-packs for your bags and places of storage.



It's probably the lens that stays on the camera 90% of the time since I picked it up.

ilbcnu

I keep packs in my bag, have a handful of other lenses with no issues and live in Southern Arizona so don't think I have a humidity issue. I do travel some but try to keep the temp changes on my gear mild and haven't had an issue prior or with any other lenses. So just not sure, came across quite a few internet post of people with same issue so I will just baby this lens more when traveling to humid areas. Also can't say enough about insurance on your gear! Should get my new Tamron 17-50 by next Wed so back in business ~ thanks for all the replies!

angevin1

ilbcnu wrote: »

Thanks for the help! I decided to replace with the same--just couldn't find something else and I really like the lens. Insurance covered so giving it another try. Tamron did respond but replacement part nearly as much as new so not economical per my local shop.

Good for you. Glad it worked out. But really Ziggy53 was onto something with pursuing it yourself.

Also, I had a lens repaired with same situ fungus and two pieces needed to replaced from Nikon.

KEH: $180 total for the repair including the part from Nikon. Just FYI~

ilbcnu

Just picked up the the lens from local shop and now will take Ziggy53 advice and see what Tamron will say direct. Thanks!! will let you know what happens~