Manual Focus Forum

I have cleaned and relubricated the 44M and the 44M-4. They are a little different. I think that the 44 may be quite different. I think that it's helpful to completely disassemble the focussing helicoids before cleaning, re-lubricating and reassembling.  I would say that it's a little tricky to re-engage at the correct point but not impossibly difficult. I've never had a problem with cross-threading with these two lenses (2-3 of each). Unfortunately I don't have a 44M at the moment otherwise I could easily take the back off and guide you through the first few steps with photographs. Have you carried out a search ? People often publish this sort of thing. I've done it myself - but with other lenses unfortunately.