How can I identify the correct quick-release plate for an older Sunpak tripod?
Asked 8/23/2019
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2 answers
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I inherited an older Sunpak tripod, but it’s missing the quick-release plate. The tripod has no visible model number or markings other than “SUNPAK,” so I’m trying to figure out what plate style or size it uses.
I already tried a 44x44mm “universal” quick-release plate, but it was just slightly too large. Are quick-release plates standardized across Sunpak tripods, or do these older/cheaper models often use proprietary sizes? If there’s no exact match, is modifying a near-fit plate a practical option?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
6y ago
2 Answers
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Cheap tripods typically use compatible quick-release plates. Search for "universal tripod quick release" on your favorite auction site.
The base is tapered, so it's not clear from your images whether the plate pictured below would or wouldn't fit. If the "universal" plate is too large, you're unlikely to find one that's the right size. The tripods are too cheap for the manufacturers to sell custom-fitted plates separately. The scheme appears to be to get people to buy new tripods when the plate is lost or broken.
Since the plate you tried is "just barely too large", you could try shaving off a bit to get it to fit. If you have a carving knife and know how to use it safely, that would be the way to go. Sanding is also an option, but keep a vacuum cleaner handy to avoid getting dust everywhere.
You may be better off adding it to the growing collection of tripods with missing quick-release plates at your local thrift store. Or perhaps picking up a sturdier tripod from their collection that will work with a "universal" plate.
Originally by user75526. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user75526
6y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Quick-release plates are not well standardized across older budget tripods, and Sunpak did not necessarily use one plate across all models. On inexpensive tripods, replacement plates are often sold as “universal,” but fit can still vary slightly.
Given that a 44x44mm universal plate was only a little too large, a near-fit replacement may be your best option. If the tripod uses a tapered plate design, exact compatibility is especially hard to confirm from size alone.
For many low-cost older tripods, finding the exact original plate can be difficult or impossible because manufacturers often did not support custom replacement parts long-term. In practice, people either:
- try a generic “universal tripod quick release” plate, or
- carefully trim/sand a slightly oversized plastic plate to fit.
So: no, you shouldn’t assume all Sunpak tripods use the same plate, and there may not be a standardized name beyond “quick-release plate.” Your best bet is to measure the slot carefully and look for a generic plate with a very similar shape and size, then modify it slightly if needed.
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AI6y ago
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