I'm using a Manfrotto (Bogen) Model 3047 head for the XL1s. My problem is the camera plates for this tripod come without a registration pin (that fits in the hole in front of the XL1s tripod socket). Anyone know of pins are available or have the P/N of a Bogen camera plate that comes with the pin installed?

The Manfrotto/Bogen Professional Camera Supports catalog lists the 3159 as an optional plate for the 3047. The 3159 is a hexagonal plate with VHS locking pin.

That looks like a nice head for camera work but must be a real pain to use with video.

Thanks for the info Ed. Yes, it is a lousy head for video, but is all I have. What do you think of the Manfrotto/Bogen Model 3460 head for the XL1s? Cheaper than starting from scratch.

Ron, the 3460 (Bogen 503) is the head that I purchased, based primarily on the recomendation of our fearless leader, Chris H. I have found it quite satisfactory, but if you do a search on tripods, you'll find several interesting discussions on that topic. The 503 has a 3/8" female thread for attaching to the legs, so make sure that will work before placing the order.

My tripod is a Bogen 3021. Heads for it usually have a short tube or rod on the bottom which fit into the top of tripod. When I looked at the 3460 on B-H's web site it appeared to have the same arrangement. I wonder if there are different versions of the 3460? From what you say, I'm out of luck; no 3/8" male on my tripod.

Do you have a ball mount on your tripod?

The 3021 legs in the catalog I have show the standard 3/8" head mounting arrangement. The rod that I think you are referring to is part of the leg assembly.

The picture of the 3460 on the B&H site shows the head mounted on a tripod with ball leveler. The head does not come with that part extending below the head in the picture, even though one might assume that from the photo. This head should work fine with your 3021 legs.

Ed -

I just wanted to thank you for all your help. I bought that tripod from a photo equipment rental place that went out of business. It came with the head installed, and no instructions. After getting your last message, I examined the tripod once again and found the three set screws that locked the head to the tripod. Loosened those and the head screwed right off, and there it was, the 3/8" male!