Gitzo center column lock seized up
Apr 21, 2023 15:13:02 #
photonaut
Loc: Albuquerque, New Mexico USA
I have a Gitzo GT1542T Traveler tripod. While using it today I had the center column raised about halfway up. The twist lock had been working just fine but it seized up and now will not turn or release. I have tried using a large Vise-Grip to try and loosen it but it is completely unmovable. Any suggestions would be appreciated. The tripod column was clean with no dust or grime on it.
Apr 22, 2023 05:16:30 #
Put in the the freezer for a couple of hours and give it a shot. Sounds funny but that will often unstick metal.
Apr 22, 2023 05:35:15 #
Apr 22, 2023 09:10:43 #
Apr 22, 2023 09:27:14 #
TerryVS wrote:
Put in the the freezer for a couple of hours and give it a shot. Sounds funny but that will often unstick metal.
I was thinking about heat - like a propane torch - but the freezer might be better. 🤣
Apr 22, 2023 09:28:26 #
Try a lubricant spray. There's a good one called Blaster.
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=blaster+all+purpose+lubricant&hvadid=409994335589&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9004811&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=4740169839635567186&hvtargid=kwd-139067143683&hydadcr=1646_11256770&tag=googhydr-20&ref=pd_sl_90gjlwmj9a_e
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=blaster+all+purpose+lubricant&hvadid=409994335589&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9004811&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=4740169839635567186&hvtargid=kwd-139067143683&hydadcr=1646_11256770&tag=googhydr-20&ref=pd_sl_90gjlwmj9a_e
Apr 22, 2023 09:58:55 #
Gitzo has an entire page on how to maintain their tripods...armor all is mentioned for the legs.
Go to their site...tells you everything you need to know...even disassembly for top to bottom maintenance.
Go to their site...tells you everything you need to know...even disassembly for top to bottom maintenance.
Apr 22, 2023 10:45:51 #
Orphoto
Loc: Oregon
After using these ideas, and it frees up. Take that assembly apart, clean it and let it dry out.
Apr 22, 2023 11:00:00 #
jerryc41 wrote:
I was thinking about heat - like a propane torch - but the freezer might be better. 🤣
A propane torch might be a bit much. Try a hair dryer first.
Apr 22, 2023 11:54:46 #
photonaut
Loc: Albuquerque, New Mexico USA
Thanks to everyone who responded I did manage to free up the center column. I did use just a bit of lubricant spray then put it in our chest-type freezer overnight. It worked! I thought about using the propane torch but my wife always thinks I have too much fun with it when I fire it up so I saved that as a last resort. Yes, living in the great American SW brings living with dust always in the air, even on a calm day. I hadn't taken it apart in too long evidently so that is my Saturday fun job. The ever-present dust is why I always carry a small blower, a good soft brush and filters with me when I go out for a day of shooting. Again, thanks for all the suggestions and for pointing me to the Gitzo site. Happy springtime shooting everyone.
Apr 22, 2023 23:54:03 #
AzYooper
Loc: Sun Lakes AZ (Almost Phoenix)
I don't know about your model, but my Gitzo Legende has a lifetime warranty. All warranty work on Gitzo is handled by CHRIS in Chandler AZ. Convenient for me, since it was a 15 min drive and they fixed it immediately. Check your warranty and Gitzo support if all else fails. I would be reluctant to try any "heavy" equipment on it and cause further damage.
Apr 23, 2023 10:44:20 #
tcthome
Loc: NJ
photonaut wrote:
Thanks to everyone who responded I did manage to f... (show quote)
Adding something like grease or Never-Seize will attract dust, dirt & grime. If you choose to do so, probably should take apart, clean &, regrease after dusty outings.
If you want to reply, then register here. Registration is free and your account is created instantly, so you can post right away.