I have a Gitzo tripod (can't remember the model). Anyway it has 3 legs obviously and each leg has to extension elements which are released by rotating the plastic band. On 2 out of the 3 legs I am unable to release one level of the extension - they just appear to be stuck. I have tried a reasonable amount of force but don't want to break them.
Any suggestions how to release these stuck legs. Note when the legs do release correctly it feels like they are under pressure or something like that - like there is air inside or something - this is probably the norm.
Thanks Giles - hadn't tried anything yet as didn't want to damage them. I wasn't even sure if I could completely taken them apart as thought there may have been some vacuum in them that causes them to move with a bit of momentum. I have several cans of WD40 for the bike so will give it a squirt and see what happens:)
I was looking for a generic reference for WD40,
but it seems to be a bit universal. I've had some joy with penetrating oil on a superannuated Manfrotto.
Stand it on its head and let the juice trickle down? Works better for tripods than it does for industrial
economies.
Thanks Giles - hadn't tried anything yet as didn't want to damage them. I wasn't even sure if I could completely taken them apart as thought there may have been some vacuum in them that causes them to move with a bit of momentum. I have several cans of WD40 for the bike so will give it a squirt and see what happens:)
Yes, WD40 sparingly is a good bet. Don't overdo it. Try to keep it off the rubber.
I'd recommend a complete disassemble. Here's a good explanation.
ETA: Ha! Should've read your post... we linked to the same place... I've had that site bookmarked for awhile so didn't even bother seeing what you put-
Thank you guys - I knew I could rely on DPC members to help me out in this sticky situation. Great link - I will take your recommendation and do a complete disassembly - I may even find some fish in there.
