EQ6 Tripod legs stuck/stiff

[that_guy (Tony)]

Hey gang, just wondering whats the best way to loosen the legs of the tripod thats (to my knowledge) thats wayy too stiff. I can't extend them beyond maybe half the way. It also looks like theres whitish powder that shakes out whenever i try to extend them, might just be paint but just thought I'd add.

So basically asking how to loosen stiff/stuck tripod legs

[glend (Glen)]

I am pretty sure you can remove the clamp in the mid point and slide the lower leg out. Loosen the hex sxrews that retain the mid point clamp section. When you get it off have a look at the lower leg tube near the top.

[that_guy (Tony)]

Hi Glen, when you say the midpoint is that where the tightening clamps are (i.e. where the tripod legs extend)?

Google research shows that this problem isnt caused by rust but by the extending tripod legs being deformed by the pressure from the tightening clamp. Now that I've inspected the tripod further I can definitely see that one side is flattened and the sides are pushing up against the outer side causing resistance. Is this something I can fix?

[BPO]

Ages ago I saw a posting somewhere from a guy who had the same problem with his Atlas, so he replaced the stock lower legs with thick walled stainless steel tubing. The most difficult part was removing the castings that encase the clamps; he had to heat them with a gas torch (or similar) and bash them with a piece of wood until the very tenacious glue let go. Getting the feet off was equally challenging for the same reason.

Not only did the thicker tube solve the deformation and jamming problem but the extra weight added significant stability.

[doppler (Rick)]

Have you tried some WD40 penetrating oil spray or similar, if its corrosion or just gunked up that should free it up a bit.

[jenchris (Jennifer)]

If you bring it to the meeting tomorrow, I'll have a look at it. No promises but I have some techniques.

[that_guy (Tony)]

Thanks Jenny, I have a feeling that it's the leg being deformed and no amount of wd40 or lubricants will help.

[jenchris (Jennifer)]

De deforming is a good tradie skill - I may be able to re establish some concentricity in the tubes

[that_guy (Tony)]

Theres a lesson to be learnt here. Dont over tighten your screws!