Kenny (Kenj8246) asked if it would be possible to remove the highly versatile tilt/swing column from his Gitzo 2227 tripod. I decided to give it a try. Why? Well, I was packing my gear for a backpack trip the other day and decided that I needed to shave weight wherever possible. Anything not essential had to go. That tilt/swing column wasn\'t necessary, but a good tripod was. I could just buy another, lighter \'pod for only about $500, or I could try to modify my 2530EX.
Turns out, this mod is silly easy. Tools needed: Ratchet wrench, 1/2\" and 9/16\" sockets. Parts needed: 3/8\"-16 X 2\" bolt and nut. Time required: <5 minutes. Cost: <$1.00
The column assembly is held on by a single 1/2\" locknut beneath the spider. The post that the assembly swings on is a tight fit in the spider, so leave the nut threaded onto the end of the post and give it a couple of taps with your wrench handle to break it free (the nut protects the threads on the post). Remove the nut and washer and the column assembly comes right out.
Column assembly removed from spider:
Get a 3/8\"-16 X 2\" bolt from the hardware store--preferably stainless steel--and a nut to fit. Slip the bolt up through the hole in the spider and thread the nut onto it. There\'s a nice hexagonal depression in the top of the spider that the nut seats right into. Tighten the nut/bolt and put some Teflon plumber\'s tape on the remaining threads (helps keep the head from unscrewing) and thread your head on. Done:
Putting the column assembly back on is quick and simple, and nothing is damaged in the process (assuming you\'re careful with the tools and don\'t lose anything).
I\'m a bit on the short side at 5\'6\", and this puts the viewfinder right at eye level with the legs fully extended--if you\'re taller, it will be a problem. This saves somewhere around a pound of weight, and should also make the tripod a bit more stable when using longer lenses since the head now sits directly over the center of the \'pod.
Since the same spider/column assembly is used on all the Explorer series \'pods (22xx EX, 25xx EX series), this mod will work on them all.
Aug 08, 2009 at 03:04 PM
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