Lens separation and use of transparent oil

[Steven Tribe]

Sounds like a complete shear, so the glass will split into components when dismantled. You can fix with clear thin oil (for perhaps 20 years - oil will not support fungus growth) or use canada balsam (bought as a clear liquid). I know nothing about how these particular lenses are built up!

[hoffner]

You can fix with clear thin oil (for perhaps 20 years - oil will not support fungus growth) or use canada balsam (bought as a clear liquid). I know nothing about how these particular lenses are built up!

Funghi eat hydrocarbons which are present in oils. It is a known fact that fungus in optical instruments can use hydrocarbons, PVC, polyurethanes, certain plastics, certain paints and other material (varnish, lacquers) as fuel.