Nikon Microscope E400 Disassembly and Assembly

Read the Edited Video Transcript for ‘Nikon Microscope E400 Disassembly and Assembly’

Hey, this is Chad with Munday Scientific. Today, we’re going to show you how to disassemble, reassemble, and properly pack a Nikon E400 microscope.

This is a straightforward microscope to work on, and understanding the process is helpful for:

  • Shipping
  • Cleaning
  • Maintenance
  • Component replacement

Step 1: Remove the Microscope Head

The first major component to remove is the head.

Removal Steps:

  1. Locate the knurled screw on the side of the microscope
  2. Loosen the screw
  3. Carefully lift the head off

⚠️ Important:
Always hold the head securely with two hands so no components fall out.


Eyepiece Removal

If you flip the head upside down, the eyepieces can fall out.

Recommendation:

If you are shipping or packing the microscope:

  • Remove the eyepieces
  • Slide them out carefully
  • Pack them separately for protection

Nosepiece Notes

Unlike some other Nikon models, the Nikon E400 nosepiece is fixed.

Key Point:

  • The nosepiece itself does not detach
  • You do not need to worry about removing it

Removing the Objectives

The objectives are threaded normally.

Removal Steps:

  1. Unscrew each objective individually
  2. Pack them separately if shipping

Removing the Stage

The stage is held in place by a knurled screw.

Removal Steps:

  1. Loosen the knurled screw
  2. Remove the stage carefully

Removing the Condenser

The condenser is also secured with a thumb screw.

Important First:

If the condenser is raised:

  • Lower it first
  • Then raise the focus slightly so the condenser can slide fully downward

Removal Steps:

  1. Loosen the thumb screw
  2. Slide the condenser out

Important Warning: Blue Filter

Be especially careful with the blue filter.

Location:

  • It sits on a round glass holder in the microscope base

Why It Matters:

If you tilt or move the microscope without removing the filter:

  • It can fall out
  • It may break

⚠️ Replacement cost is approximately $75, so always remove it and store it safely before shipping or moving the microscope.


Reassembling the Nikon E400

Now let’s put the microscope back together.


Step 1: Reinstall the Stage

  1. Position the stage so it sits flat and level
  2. Avoid installing it at an angle
  3. Tighten the thumb screw securely

Step 2: Reinstall the Condenser

  1. Slide the condenser into the substage mount
  2. Tighten the thumb screw
  3. Raise the condenser to the appropriate position

Step 3: Reinstall Objectives

Any objectives that were removed should now be screwed back in.


Step 4: Reinstall the Head

Whether you’re using:

  • Fixed binocular
  • Trinocular
  • Tilt head
  • Telescoping head

…the installation process is essentially the same.

Steps:

  1. Place the head onto the mount
  2. Tighten the knurled/thumb screw securely

Step 5: Reinstall Eyepieces

Nikon eyepieces use a groove-locking mechanism.

Installation Steps:

  1. Slide the eyepieces in
  2. Align the groove
  3. Rotate until they click into place

Once clicked in, they are properly secured.


Final Setup

At this point:

  • Stage installed
  • Condenser installed
  • Objectives installed
  • Head secured
  • Eyepieces locked

The next step is to set up color illumination.

(You can check out our other videos for detailed instructions on color illumination setup.)


Final Thoughts

The Nikon E400 is a durable, reliable microscope that is easy to service and pack when you know the proper process.

Pay special attention to:

  • Eyepieces
  • Blue filter
  • Condenser position

These small details can prevent damage and save money.


Contact Information

If you have any questions:

Phone: 919-775-5596
Email:

Online Shop: microscopemarketplace.com


Closing

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