Disassembling a Multi-head Nikon Microscope

View the Edited Video Transcript for ‘Disassembling a Multi-head Nikon Microscope’

Hi, this is Walter Kelly with Munday Scientific Instrument Service. Today, we’re going to show you how to disassemble a Nikon dual-head bridge microscope system.

We’ll walk through each section of the microscope step by step, including:

• Removing the heads
• Removing the bridge assembly
• Removing the illumination section
• Removing the nosepiece
• Removing the stage and condenser

We’ll also briefly discuss packing recommendations for shipping.

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Overview of the Components

Before beginning, let’s identify the major parts of the system:

• Main microscope viewing head
• Secondary viewing head
• Illumination/pointer assembly
• Bridge tube and splitter assembly
• Microscope stand

Some bridge systems may also include additional viewing ports for multi-user applications.

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Step 1: Remove the Eyepieces

Before removing the heads:

1. Remove all eyepieces
2. Set them aside in a safe location

This helps prevent accidental damage during handling.

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Step 2: Remove the Microscope Heads

Underneath each head, you’ll find a silver retaining screw.

⚠️ Important:
This is not the screw on the stand itself—it is located on the illumination assembly beneath the head.

Removal Steps:

1. Loosen the silver screw a few turns
2. Slide the head off carefully
3. Set it aside safely

Repeat the process for the second head.

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Step 3: Remove the Bridge Assembly

Next, remove the bridge section.

Steps:

1. Locate the knurled collar
2. Rotate it away from you
3. Continue turning until the assembly loosens

You may hear some noise from the threads during removal—this is normal.

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Removing the Adjustable Stand Section

You’ll notice another knurled section underneath.

1. Rotate it to loosen
2. Remove the adjustable support section

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Additional Viewing Ports

Some bridge assemblies include:

• Two viewing ports
• Additional connection points for multi-head applications

Not all systems will have the same configuration.

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Step 4: Remove the Illumination Section

To remove the illumination assembly:

1. Loosen the lower silver screw
2. Once loosened, lift the illumination section straight off
3. Set it aside carefully

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Step 5: Remove the Nosepiece

Before removing the nosepiece:

1. Lower the stage as far as possible

This prevents accidentally striking or damaging the objectives.

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Nosepiece Removal Steps

1. Remove the Allen wrench from the lower-right side of the microscope
2. Insert it into the small screw hole beneath the head mount
3. Loosen the retaining screw a few turns

The nosepiece will:

• Slide forward slightly
• Stop
• Then lower downward for removal

Carefully remove it and set it aside.

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Step 6: Remove the Stage

Underneath the stage is a small access hole.

Removal Steps:

1. Insert the Allen wrench into the hole
2. Loosen the retaining screw a few turns
3. Lift the stage off carefully

Set the stage aside safely.

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Step 7: Remove the Condenser

If you’ve been following along:

• The stage bracket should already be raised

Next:

1. Lower the condenser using the condenser adjustment knob
2. Locate the small screw behind the larger silver knob
3. Insert the Allen wrench
4. Loosen the screw a few turns
5. Slide the condenser out

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Disassembly Complete

At this point, the Nikon multi-head microscope system is fully disassembled.

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Reassembly Instructions

If you need to reassemble the microscope:

• Simply follow these steps in reverse order

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Packing Recommendations

For packing and shipping:

• Wrap all components individually in bubble wrap
• Double box fragile items
• Secure all components tightly so nothing moves during shipping

The same general packing principles used for Olympus BX41 microscopes also apply here.

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Final Thoughts

Proper disassembly and careful packing are essential for protecting multi-head microscope systems during transport.

Pay particular attention to:

• Heads
• Nosepiece
• Illumination components
• Condenser and stage

These are the most delicate and expensive parts.

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Contact Information

If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact Munday Scientific Instrument Service.

Online Shop: MicroscopeMarketplace.com

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Closing

Thank you for watching, and have a nice day! If you like these video, be sure to subscribe to our Youtube Channel.