So the filter thread (I think that's what it is called) broke on my Nikon 18-200 lens. At this point I can't even put a lens cap on.

I have to leave for a trip in 10 days and need something to take with.

Is it worth getting a repair estimate from Nikon? Any experience how long they take?

I'm also considering buying a new equivalent - Mine is ~5 years old, bought it when I had my D80, and ebaying the current lens.

Thanks for any advice.

Timing is tough to get it repaired before your trip.

I was thinking a Cokin system might suffice, but, is it a polarizing filter you want/need or just something to protect the front element?

Would a slide-on cap like this do the job (I'm sure there's a cheaper alternative around out there? [www.adorama.com]

Thanks -

Mostly I need a lens cap to protect the front element, especially for the upcoming trip. If I can get a cheaper 'snap' lens cap that would be fine. Then I can look into repair options once I'm back.

The threads aren't working? is that it? Aware of Teflon tape? Great stuff.

You must have snapped a good chunk off if there's not enough ring left for the snap cap.

Plastic bag and a rubber band ?
May not look pretty but rain drops are a PITA.

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photos!

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I'd put that bayonet mount lens hood on it and not worry about it.

It's probably not worth a repair, you'll still get a decent price for it if you ebay it, and then you can buy the newer version if you like, which comes with a zoom lock (a feature I wish more zooms had).

Buy another lens and sell the busted on as-is with noted condition on eBay. It will balance out down time of no lens plus cost to ship and repair.

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Ways to improve web conference image and sound quality. [forums.macresource.com]

For the trip, cut down a sock. Worked for me. Just make sure it's relatively lint-free.

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Thanks for the feedback everyone. I'll be ordering a new lens from Amazon and will eBay the older one upon my return.

The entire filter thread ring snapped off in one piece. Not quite sure how that happened. But I'll describe it and hope for a reasonable recovery on eBay.

Might want to check your filters to see if something is out of spec to cause the damage. Do you have a filter with too deep of a threaded section, perhaps? Debris or irregularity in the threads than make just the slightest bit too large? Just guessing here.