p.1 #1 · Is this a bad idea? Quick Link (Arca/Leofoto) connection atop Leveling Base platform
I know about other options I just want to know if this option is a bad idea.
I have a Really Right Stuff TA-2U-LB Universal Series 2 Leveling Base with the flat Universal Platform (1/4-20 stud). The leveling base is a permanent fixture atop my tripod that's not going to be removed. I want the flexibility to switch between heads on top of the leveling base.
Since making the switch to the RRS LB I now have a couple of unused Arca-Swiss Quick-Links connectors that are lying around. Does anyone see a problem with attaching the AS quick-link base receiver to the top of the RRS leveling platform, then coupling/decoupling heads from there.
FWIW, the RRS leveling base hasn't arrived yet otherwise I'd test it out. I just wanted to ask the question here in case someone else has already tried it and encountered issues.
p.1 #2 · Is this a bad idea? Quick Link (Arca/Leofoto) connection atop Leveling Base platform
That is not really ideal. The best option is to get the RRS leveler with the A-S clamp that replaces the flat plate with stud. It is held on with 4 large, spaced screws so is very solid and does not rotate. Since it replaces the old top it does not add too much weight either. You can use either the RRS or Kirk dovetails available in two sizes and cheap to have on a variety of heads. I mostly use the Kirk dovetails as they employ a grub screw for anti-rotation. The small RRS dovetail had a stupid lip also and was not so good with some small-medium heads with bases just a little too large for it. The Kirks are a perfect fit and either easily holds a 500/4 with pro body over the shoulder.
I have the 2 and 3 series RRS levelers with the integrated QR clamp on two tripods and about 5 ball and gimbal heads with the dovertails so all can be mixed and matched easily. It's nice to quickly install or remove the heads with no possibility of rotation once the lever is locked. It makes transport easier also.
p.1 #3 · Is this a bad idea? Quick Link (Arca/Leofoto) connection atop Leveling Base platform
EB-1 wrote:
That is not really ideal. The best option is to get the RRS top plate with the A-S clamp that replaces the flat plate with stud. It is held on with 4 large, spaced screws so is very solid and does not rotate. Since it replaces the old top it does not add too much weight either. You can use either the RRS or Kirk dovetails available in two sizes and cheap to have on a variety of heads. I mostly use the Kirk dovetails as they employ a grub screw for anti-rotation. The small RRS dovetail had a stupid lip also and was not so good with some small-medium heads with bases just a little too large for it. The Kirks are a perfect fit and either easily holds a 500/4 with pro body over the shoulder.
I have the 2 and 3 series RRS levelers with the integrated QR clamp on two tripods and about 5 ball and gimbal heads with the dovertails so all can be mixed and matched easily. It's nice to quickly install or remove the heads with no possibility of rotation once the lever is locked. It makes transport easier also.
First, thanks for the response. You're probably right about it not being ideal. I have a spare FLM QLB-60 lever clamp that came with one of their ball heads. I swapped it out for a RRS lever release so its in the "parts" drawer.
My real concern is the lack of a set/grub screw on RRS leveling base platform that prevents the head from loosening when moved counterclockwise. I'd be fine spinning heads on and off but I don't want them working themselves free
I think my solution is along the lines that you propose. Mount the FLM QLB-60 lever clamp to the top of the RRS leveling platform. The OLB-60 has two extra holes for grub/set screws that can screw down onto the leveling platform. I can use those screws or loctite to the main stud. The mount should be firm after either method is applied.
I have a spare Kirk Quick Release (dovetail) plate in the "parts" draw so I'll probably have to buy another one and then I'll be good. I concur on Kirk QR dovetails>RRS for the same reason(s).
p.1 #4 · Is this a bad idea? Quick Link (Arca/Leofoto) connection atop Leveling Base platform
I have a couple of the FLM SRB-60, which looks like the FLM QLB-60, but is a screw clamp rather than lever clamp. I have one on the Leophoto tripod with it's integrated mini leveler. I almost needed a really thin stainless steel shim to get the clocking right but was able to get one grub screw in without it. It's rather a bit of luck depending on the particular platform.
The FLM clamp does not look the strongest but has held up to a decent load (500/4+1.4xTC, RF adapter and R5/R5II). The main caveat is that the angle of the clamp does not hold onto the dovetails of the RRS or Kirk as well. Looking at it is profile I was rather worried about the contact points close to the end. I think FLM could have made the clamp part extend further. It's not the RRS or Kirk parts as it's the same issue with other A-S parts also.
p.1 #5 · Is this a bad idea? Quick Link (Arca/Leofoto) connection atop Leveling Base platform
EB-1 wrote:
I have a couple of the FLM SRB-60, which looks like the FLM QLB-60, but is a screw clamp rather than lever clamp. I have one on the Leophoto tripod with it's integrated mini leveler. I almost needed a really thin stainless steel shim to get the clocking right but was able to get one grub screw in without it. It's rather a bit of luck depending on the particular platform.
The FLM clamp does not look the strongest but has held up to a decent load (500/4+1.4xTC, RF adapter and R5/R5II). The main caveat is that the angle of the clamp does not hold onto the dovetails of the RRS or Kirk as well. Looking at it is profile I was rather worried about the contact points close to the end. I think FLM could have made the clamp part extend further. It's not the RRS or Kirk parts as it's the same issue with other A-S parts also.
Yeah, after I posted I went and fished it out of the drawer. I put a FLM Arca Swiss clamp in and tightened it down. The curved part of the lever barely cleared the AS plate. With a solid base underneath opening & closing the clamp might be an issue. I also have a PMG C60 clamp and while its marvelous its a screw clamp and I've become spoiled on lever release clamps.
I really don't want to fork over $160+ for a new TA-LBC: Round Lever Release Clamp but I might have to. The RRS has the lever mechanism on the outside of the outside of the LB so there are no clearance issues.
Maybe I should just keep my leofoto LBs as those worked w/o issue
