Squeaky Tripod at DVinfo.net

Frank Wright · March 25th, 2003, 06:36 AM

Hi,

Probably a stupid question, but I'm just getting into this, and I've got a new Libec Tripod from Zotz to go with my XL1S. The problem is that the head, while fluid, occasionally makes squeaks that are audible on the sound system during filming. I've got a great range of motion and everything, but it seems as though the things just TOO new. Is there a way to work this out of the tripod to give me a more fluid (i.e. no noise) motion, using possibly soap or WD-40? Any suggestions would be helpful. Thanks.

Frank

Harry Settle · March 26th, 2003, 08:06 PM

First, go to pains to find the squeek locations. Don't use WD-40, believe it or not it is not a lubricant. It dries up very quickly and leaves no lubricating properties behind. Try small amounts of graphite, talc, wax, soap or silicone lubricant.

Jeff Donald · March 30th, 2003, 10:58 AM

Try to find some molybdenum disulfide. It is an industrial lubricant, usually in a powered form. It has an extremely low coefficient of friction. It is not effected by temperature extremes and stays put. It works on almost all materials, and is safe on plastics and metals.

Harry Settle · March 30th, 2003, 06:21 PM

Good stuff. Stay away from greases and oils as they attract dirt.

March 25th, 2003, 06:36 AM	#1
Frank Wright New Boot Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: Cleveland, OH Posts: 5	Squeaky Tripod Hi, Probably a stupid question, but I'm just getting into this, and I've got a new Libec Tripod from Zotz to go with my XL1S. The problem is that the head, while fluid, occasionally makes squeaks that are audible on the sound system during filming. I've got a great range of motion and everything, but it seems as though the things just TOO new. Is there a way to work this out of the tripod to give me a more fluid (i.e. no noise) motion, using possibly soap or WD-40? Any suggestions would be helpful. Thanks. Frank

March 26th, 2003, 08:06 PM	#2
Harry Settle Major Player Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Bemidji, MN Posts: 276	First, go to pains to find the squeek locations. Don't use WD-40, believe it or not it is not a lubricant. It dries up very quickly and leaves no lubricating properties behind. Try small amounts of graphite, talc, wax, soap or silicone lubricant. __________________ "DOH"!!!

March 30th, 2003, 10:58 AM	#3
Jeff Donald Warden Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Clearwater, FL Posts: 8,287	Try to find some molybdenum disulfide. It is an industrial lubricant, usually in a powered form. It has an extremely low coefficient of friction. It is not effected by temperature extremes and stays put. It works on almost all materials, and is safe on plastics and metals. __________________ Jeff Donald Carpe Diem Search DVinfo.net for quick answers \| Where to Buy? From the best in the business: DVinfo.net sponsors

March 30th, 2003, 06:21 PM	#4
Harry Settle Major Player Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Bemidji, MN Posts: 276	Good stuff. Stay away from greases and oils as they attract dirt. __________________ "DOH"!!!