Bogen Tripod Problems - Ready to Switch

Streetwise Creative · #1 10-23-2006, 10:43 AM

For years, I used the Bogen 3051 automatic tripod. However, after about 10 years, it would no longer hold properly and started to slip -- especially in cold weather where the metal would contract.

About 5 years ago, I purchased the Bogen 3036 tripod which is essentially the same thing, but with flip-lever locks. It worked great until this past year, it is starting to slip. Last week, I had to use duck tape to keep it from slipping.

Do all Bogens have this issue? If so, I'm ready to switch brands, but don't know what would serve me well. I've read about some posts where the screw-style legs aren't all that easy to raise/lower the camera, especially if it's heavy.

I shoot with everything from a small Canon EOS-1D MKII, up to a Sinar p camera with a Leaf Aptus back. The bulk of my work is on-location, from table-top advertising, to architecture. I need to go from maybe a foot off the ground, to about 6' tall. The Bogen 3036 allows me that kind of flexibility.

ChrisPerry · #2 10-23-2006, 11:11 AM

Isn't there a way to tighten the leg clamps? I have a tripod O got off ebay from amvona.com and the leg clamps are the flip lever types and the tension can be adjusted. I figure if a $68 tripod has this a $300 one should too.

How much do you use it? Is it just plain worn out? Do tripods wear out?

Streetwise Creative · #3 10-23-2006, 11:34 AM

Chris,

You might be on to something. I see that there are some resessed bolts that I might be able to tighten. They don't look loose, but who knows? I just need to find a small socket to fit and maybe that will do it?

I've been eyeing the Gitzo G-1346 with the Bogen 3039 head. Looks like it will do a great job, but then again, if I can save the $700, sure would be worth it! I'll go buy a socket and let you know what happens.

Thanks

Dave

BobSmith · #4 10-23-2006, 03:53 PM

I have several Gitzos but it seems my Bogens are the most oft used as they're just more convenient and fast to operate. You need to adjust the clamps. Depending the type on your particular model a small socket wrench will do. Most of the Bogen tripod's I've owned came with a little plastic clamp on one of the legs that also has a socket wrench built into it. It's there specifically for this purpose. With age it breaks and becomes useless, but until then even this cheesy little plastic wrench is all that's needed to adjust the clamps.

I recently bought a small tool from B&H for just this purpose. It's a socket wrench just the right size with a handle about the size of a key. Very easy to store in a camera bag. Works on all sorts of connectors on numerous Manfrotto (Bogen) products.

Bob Smith

David_Buzzard · #5 10-23-2006, 10:46 PM

All you need to adjust it is a wrench with a swiveled socket instead of a boxed end. You can get one at any high end autoparts store (it's a little specialized for Home Depot) and should cost you about $20.00. I worked for a guy who had one of those tripods and I had to ski with it regularly. I really grew to hate it.

I have a Gitzo 410 with a removable center unit, and it's blows the Bogen/Manfronto away. It's tons lighter, will go right down to ground level, and will support just about anything. With the sliding centre collum in, it will go to about 8 feet and support anything up to a small 4x5 camera.

David Buzzard

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