tripod head screw problem

[jjonsalt]

As I mentioned in an earlier post I have got a new tripod. The new tripod has 3/8" mounting screw and my ball head has 1/4". If I understand correctly by removing the brass screwset in the bottom of the ball head I will have the 3/8" screw size I need. I can't unscrew the thing for the life of me, not even with one holding the head and another manning the screwdriver. Suggestions?

[Jack W.]

Have you checked to see if the screw in the tripod is reversible?
I have two tripods, and both have reversible screws; 1/4" on one side and 3/8" on the other.
Jack

[PacAce]

Also, have you checked to see if the 3/8" screw on the tripod will decent into the tripod to reveal the 1/4" screw? A lot of good tripods have such a screw. You can check by pushing down on the side of the screw.

[jjonsalt]

Dosen't appear to be reversible. It's a Bogen 3246 and the specs I find online state it at 3/8" and no mention of 1/4". Also, it sure does'nt look reversable.

[jjonsalt]

Also, have you checked to see if the 3/8" screw on the tripod will decent into the tripod to reveal the 1/4" screw? A lot of good tripods have such a screw. You can check by pushing down on the side of the screw.

I have a monopod with that feature, wish this tripod did too (both are Bogens).

[Jon]

This may sound like I'm joking, but get a bigger screwdriver. That and a pipe wrench to hold the ball head with should let you develop more torque. Failing that, maybe get a screw extractor or drill it out.

[Tsmith]

If that is truly a thread reducer in the head _ if you have a drill motor just go to any home improvement store and buy an ease out bit that will remove it.

[jjonsalt]

This may sound like I'm joking, but get a bigger screwdriver. That and a pipe wrench to hold the ball head with should let you develop more torque. Failing that, maybe get a screw extractor or drill it out.

I already have the largest screwdriver blade that will fit the slot. And, I'm not putting a pipe wrench, grip pliers or vise on my ball head. In the photo you will notice the ball tightner is rather long and so keeping the body still is no problem. My son has a screw extractor set (from me, I gave him my tools when I retired) and that may be what I have to do.

[md_129]

Bogen makes an tripod adaptor plate for around $15.00, this may save you some grief.

[jjonsalt]

Bogen makes an tripod adaptor plate for around $15.00, this may save you some grief.

I will certainly look into that. Do you have a part#?

[gramps]

Have you tried putting a long 1/4" bolt with a double nut set up on it in the reducer? Then you could use a wrench instead of a screwdriver to take out the reducer.

[jjonsalt]

Have you tried putting a long 1/4" bolt with a double nut set up on it in the reducer? Then you could use a wrench instead of a screwdriver to take out the reducer.

Not sure I understand.

[SkipD]

Have you tried putting a long 1/4" bolt with a double nut set up on it in the reducer? Then you could use a wrench instead of a screwdriver to take out the reducer.The brass threaded section is recessed. You'd need to add a small OD (outside diameter) washer or two between the brass and the nut(s) on the 1/4" bolt. Get that good and tight, and you should be able to unscrew the brass insert.

Hopefully, nobody put it in the head with Stupid-Glue.

[jjonsalt]

The brass threaded section is recessed. You'd need to add a small OD (outside diameter) washer or two between the brass and the nut(s) on the 1/4" bolt. Get that good and tight, and you should be able to unscrew the brass insert.

Hopefully, nobody put it in the head with Stupid-Glue.

OK, thanks. 'Stupid-Glue'? Now that sounds like something I could use.

[Jon]

I will certainly look into that. Do you have a part#?
Could be talking about this (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=5306&is=REG&addedTroughType=categoryNavigation). Please order from the link so I get my cut.










I wish! :{)#

[jjonsalt]

Could be talking about this (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=5306&is=REG&addedTroughType=categoryNavigation). Please order from the link so I get my cut.










I wish! :{)#

I think I will try the double nut thing first and the adapter if that does'nt work.

[Ross McT.]

before going to this effort, i might disassemble the whole unit to make sure that there isn't a setscrew retaining that brass plug. If there is, you will be attempting to shear it off. I can assure you that the set screw will win either way. I'd expect there to be one other wise the brass plug could easily come out.

When you reassemble the unit, if there is a set screw, make sure that you put lock tight or nail polish on it to retain it.

Providing that there isn't a setscrew:
1. Buy a 1/4" bolt and a nut.
2. Thread the nut onto the bolt and then thread it into the tripod.
3. Tighten the nut against the brass plug. (installing a washer under the nut may be required to sit the nut only against the brass not the aluminum)
4. Thread the bolt out, hopefully bringing the brass with it

[jjonsalt]

Thanks everyone. I decided to get the adapter. If I mess up the threads on the ballhead and still can't get it out... Anyway, the adapter has 3 screws that lock the ballhead in place as does the tripod to lock the adapter in place. The tripod and ballhead weigh almost 12lbs. so a little more weight won't hurt. Thanks again, this thread really helped.