i won an o'connor model 50 on ebay and it is leaking fluid.

first, should i try to replace/ rebuild it myself? used to be a motorcycle mechanic.

second, where can i get such a rebuild kit (o rings, grease, ??)?

last, what would o'connor charge and is it the only way to go?

a google search for rebuild kits has no results.

thanks,
g5

I would probably send it to OConnor for an overhaul. They are located in Costa Mesa, CA (714) 979-3993.

In their old catalogs they use to have a flat rate for overhauls. I think it was around $500. I'm not sure if that's still the case.

You could probably replace the o-rings yourself if you measure the o-ring grooves with a caliper and match that to a Parker o-ring catalog. The only problem is charging the head with fluid again. You don't know what fluid they are using so you don't know what o-ring material to get that is compatible with that fluid. Also, some of the older heads may use cork or some other materials that need to be replaced.

Another option is a shop that specializes in repairing film/broadcast camera support. One such shop is www.transfilm.com in Burbank, CA.