Hi all,
I have the 501 fluid head/3211V leg for a few years. I am attempting for the first time to remove the fluid head so that I could install the head somewhere else. I managed to take out the 3 screws but the stem is still "FIRMLY" attached to the head.

Any help appreciated.

Thanks...
Aaron

Don't forget to tighten the pan lock firmly. Leave the stem in the tripod and then try quickly jerking it free. You might try tapping on the stem base with a screwdriver handle while trying to unscrew the head. What probably happened is that the head was put on too tight and maybe some corrosion has developed seizing the male and female threads. You might also try putting an awl into one of the screw holes and applying downward and sideways pressure to pry the head free. you might also try turning the head and stem upside down, and using one of the screw holes fill the cavity with wd40 or something similar and let it sit for a few hours to dissolve any corrosion that may have formed. Good luck man. If you do finally free it up clean the threads and apply a light coat of neverseize or grease and never tighten the head down too firmly, just snug and let the screws hold the head in place.

Hi Eugene,
Leaving the pole in the tripod and turn did the trick. Big thanks for the help.

-Aa