quick release question ...

[removed account4]

i use a bogen head with a quick release plate. the base of my camera
has a sliding "block" to keep the balance point of the camera in check ... but
in order for me to move the block, i have to loosen the quick release a little bit, to unlock (free-up) the block/sliding-plate - probably not the best of designs, i am sure of this.

i used to use a longshafted-flat-head screwdriver - and when the handle broke - i started using a dandylion remover ( long shaft with a "V" at the end.) no matter what i use it is very awkward to tighten /loosen the washer-locknut with the camera mounted on the tripod head.
i have called around and even asked even bogen what they suggest, but they have come up all " ummmmmm's " ( i can see they scratching their heads )
coming from a company that wants to charge $20 for a 3/8 bolt, i would have expected they would have a custom tool for about $200

what tool do you use that does the trick -

thanks!
john

 

[wfwhitaker]

Can you replace the bolt with one which has an Allen head? Then you could use an Allen wrench which is much better than using gardening tools.

 

[removed account4]

thanks will -
i'll try that -
i am sure you are right - a dandylion extractor does not work very well .

 

[rbarker]

Or, maybe a hex head? Then, you could use a photon-box wrench.

If you could post (or, link to) an image of the assemby, demented minds here might come up with additional suggestions.

 

[smieglitz]

If you are referring to the gray round lock nut with the slot in it, I use an allen head wrench.

I've been frustrated by the camera rotating a bit even when the quick release has been tightened down as much as I can manage. As a result, I just built a sliding cradle for the camera that has the bottom routed about 3/16" in in the shape of the quick release plate. The plate fits into the routed area and the cradle with attached camera no longer rotates around the tripod screw.

Joe