stuck tripod legs

[billkoe]

I have an old Gitzo with the bottom section of one leg that will not unscrew. Does anyone know the best way to un-seize them? I've thought about getting a couple of small strap wrenches. I don't know... Someone gave me this old G410 that otherwise is in great shape.

Thanks folks.

 

[Mainecoonmaniac]

Leg locks are made for human hands not wrenches. Take a rubber gloves to get a better grip unlock it.

 

[billkoe]

Thanks, Maine. My thought was that strap wrenches wouldn't scratch the legs if I need more torque. I'll try rubber gloves first.

 

[bsdunek]

You might put a drop of liquid wrench on it and let it sit a few hours. Then use those rubber pads they sell in kitchen shops for unscrewing jar lids.

 

[dpurdy]

That is what I hate about Gitzos. I have had to take a wrench to mine a couple of times. The good thing about Gitzos is that they can be completely taken apart and cleaned and lubed and they will work much better.

 

[Rick A]

Try heating the stuck locking mechanism with a hairdryer on high heat setting. A drop or two(use very little)of penetrating oil may help if used at the same time, the heat will help draw the oil into the threads. Do not try to force the lock, wiggle it back and forth, as much as it will allow. Never use any tools other than your hand, at most use a rubber pad for better grip. I have rubber strap wrenches, they have a pinch point that will deform whatever they are pried against.

 

[Ian Grant]

I'd soak with WD-40 then after an hour or so it should free up, then I'd dis-assemble and wash & clean well with hot water and liquid detergent. Then I'd dry, Lubricate and re-assemble.

It's a good idea to do this very few years anyway with tripods.

Ian

 

[billkoe]

Thanks for all the info. I hadn't thought about the possibility of strap wrenches doing damage at the point of impact. Will give each suggestion a try until it's unlocked... then clean, re-place shims and SHOOT.

 

[removed account4]

bike tires work well to give grip

 

[Collas]

Are you thinking of bicycle inner tubes rather than the tyres?

If you do use WD-40, make sure that you remove all traces as it will rot the rubber and plastic parts.

Nick

 

[Lloydy]

When my 25 year old Gitzo got a bit cranky I contacted the UK importers, which is now the Manfrotto importers, and they sent me all the bushes for the legs - for free. But don't say I told you.

 

[lxdude]

Welcome Lloydy!

 

[John Koehrer]

I'd try the strap wrenches with something between the cam and the lock to spread the pressure. Unless it's really corroded it shouldn't take that much force.
Disassemble, clean the threads with a steel or brass brush and lubricate with paraffin, ski or candle wax.