Bogen 488RC0 Question

[ejwebb]

I bought the 488RC0 head without realizing how big the quick release plates are - hard to tell all this online and the local camera shop does not stock this head so I ordered it sight unseen. The levels made it look like a better option than the RC2 at the same price. So, I thought it was no big deal until I have now used it a few times (and held it past the return limit) but wish I would have ordered the RC2 as these plates are just to big to leave on the camera.

Can I just buy an RC2 adapter, remove the RC0 adapter (looks like a single screw bolts it onto the ballhead), and screw the RC2 adapter in? If so, is the RC2 adapter the correct part or do I need something else? I know I will need some new plates as well.

Bogen's product information and photos are very hard to follow on questions like this so any help is appreciated. Thanks!

ej

[SkipD]

I do believe that you can buy a Bogen/Manfrotto 3299. That kit is identical to what's on the top of my 488RC2. There's a female 3/8" thread in the middle of the part that would fasten to the ballhead.

If your RC0 baseplate is fastened with a screw or bolt, that may be different. If you can remove your RC0 baseplate and find a male 3/8" thread at the top of the shaft that is part of the ball, you should be in good shape. Another thing that would tell you that the conversion is possible is to determine that the RC0 baseplate has a threaded hole in it where it is connected to the ballhead.

[ejwebb]

Thanks, Skip. I did take it apart and found a hole all the way through the base plate with a 3/8" screw fastening it to the ballhead. In other words I have a female thread on the shaft of the ballhead and not a male as you describe above. I still am not sure if the adapter will work unless there is an additional part to buy - like a female to female adapter - or would that be a screw with no head? Anyway, if no one else has tried this I may have to call Bogen customer service...