Olympus SZX Microscope Disassembly
Read the Edited Video Transcript for ‘Olympus SZX Microscope Disassembly’
Hey, this is Chad with Munday Scientific. Today, we’re going to show you how to disassemble an Olympus SZX12 stereo microscope—or virtually any similar SZX model—for safe shipping.
These microscopes are commonly mounted on one of two stand types:
- Boom stand
- Illuminated base stand
Most of the disassembly process is the same for both, with only a few differences.
Stand Type 1: Boom Stand Disassembly
If your microscope is mounted on a boom stand, it will typically be attached using a collar system.
Removing the Runaway Collar
The first thing you’ll notice is the runaway collar.
Purpose:
- Prevents the microscope assembly from sliding off the arbor/post
- Acts as a safety stop
Removal Steps:
- Loosen and remove the runaway collar
- Loosen the mounting screw on the collar assembly
- Slide the microscope assembly off the post
If the assembly is too low to slide off easily, simply raise it slightly before removal.
Stand Type 2: Illuminated Base Stand Disassembly
For microscopes on an illuminated base stand, Olympus usually includes a built-in 3 mm Allen wrench in the top of the post.
Accessing the Wrench:
- Lift the top section
- Remove the built-in wrench
(You can also use your own 3 mm Allen wrench.)
Step 1: Remove the Microscope Head
Between the eyepieces, you’ll find the head retaining screw.
Removal Steps:
- Insert the 3 mm Allen wrench
- Loosen the screw
- Remove the head carefully
Step 2: Remove the Pod and Focus Block
Next, loosen the large black knob on the stand.
Once loosened:
- The pod and focus block lift straight off
Removing the Vertical Post (Optional for Shipping)
Some illuminated stands include taller support posts.
If you need to reduce box size:
- Remove the lamp house from the back
- Locate the two 3 mm Allen screws behind it
- Remove those screws
- Slide the post out
This makes packing much easier.
Removing the Front Lens
Before proceeding, remove the front objective lens.
This is especially important if your microscope has:
- Dual objective turret
- Larger front-end assemblies
Removing the front lens reduces size and prevents damage.
Removing the Dual Objective Turret (If Applicable)
For systems with a dual objective turret, removal is often necessary before the pod can slide off properly.
Tools Needed:
- 2.5 mm Allen wrench
Steps:
- Rotate the turret to access all screws
- Loosen all three screws
- Remove the turret
Important Screw Storage Tip
Any screws removed from the microscope should be:
- Placed in a small ziplock bag
- Taped directly to the microscope component itself
⚠️ Do NOT tape screw bags to bubble wrap inside the box, as they are easily lost.
Step 3: Remove the Pod from the Focus Block
Most standard SZX microscopes have a small white cap on the right side.
Removal Steps:
- Remove the white cap
- Insert the 3 mm Allen wrench
- Loosen the hidden retaining screw
- Slide the pod off the dovetail mount
Packing for Shipping
Once disassembled, proper packing is critical.
Double Boxing Recommendations
Pod:
- Wrap thoroughly in bubble wrap
- Place in a small box
- Put that box inside a larger box
Head:
- Bubble wrap heavily
- Double box for maximum protection
Other Components:
- Wrap securely
- Double box if extra protection is desired
General Shipping Advice
The key is to bag, wrap, and protect everything carefully.
If you are ever unsure:
When in doubt, double box it.
Final Thoughts
Disassembling an Olympus SZX12 or similar SZX microscope is straightforward once you understand the stand type and component layout.
Proper disassembly helps:
- Prevent damage
- Simplify shipping
- Protect expensive optical components
Contact Information
If you have any questions about this process or other microscope-related topics:
Online Store: microscopemarketplace.com
Closing
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