RF 200 - 800 zoom has become sticky, not moving smoothly

[LaneW]

My 200-800 is only a year old and the zoom barrel has become sticky.  Not moving smoothly like it did when new.  Looking for suggestions and hoping I don’t need to send it in to Canon. 

[JeffXB]

I presume the tension ring is at its loosest setting? Could be expansion from the heat? Mine will occasionally do the same when I’ve been out with it in the sun for a while (I live in the Southeast USA). The issue disappears once the lens cools down. I’ve also found wiping it with a lens cleaning cloth or a lint free cloth lightly dampened with 90% rubbing alcohol helps (let it fully evaporate before zooming the barrel back in).

[LaneW]

Thanks. Yes, its on the loosest setting, and I am shooting in cool weather here.

[FloridaDrafter]

Mine has been stiff from day 1, and by that I mean it's not near as smooth as my other zooms. Fortunately, it's always at 800 🙂

Newton

[ebiggs1]

"My 200-800 is only a year old ..."

If you have not exceeded the one year, it can go to Canon for free and would be my suggestion. If it has but only a few days call Canon and explain the condition. 1 (800) 652-2666

[TomRamsey]

I would send it in, especially under warranty, it could lead to something worse.