How do I tighten loose lever locks on a light stand?
Asked 11/17/2020
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2 answers
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The lever locks on my light stand have started slipping over time. The nut that adjusts the lock tension is recessed, so it’s awkward to reach with normal tools. What’s the best way to tighten it, and is there a good way to stop it loosening again?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
5y ago
2 Answers
3
There is a simple remedy. Manfrotto sells some cheap cable clips which have one end that can be used to re-tighten these screws as it is narrow enough to fit into the recessed housing of the nut.
You can see the tool part on the left side of the image.
I use these clips to maintain tension on the lever locks and always have one clipped to the light stand, which makes sure that you always have them with you, when you need them. They are also great as an emergency give-away for fellow photographers.
Note that they are sold in 2 sizes. Both should work ok. The smaller one is sold as Manfrotto 064 Cable Clips in bags of 4.
Originally by user88965. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user88965
5y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes—these locks are usually re-tightened by turning the recessed nut with a thin socket or purpose-made tool. Common fixes from photographers are:
- Use a small socket/nut driver that fits the recessed hex nut. On some Manfrotto gear, an 8mm socket works well.
- Manfrotto cable clips can also work, since one end is narrow enough to reach the recessed nut.
Tighten only enough to restore firm clamping; don’t overtighten, or the lever may become hard to close or damage the mechanism.
If the lock keeps loosening, address the cause as well:
- add or replace a washer,
- use a spring if the clamp design allows it,
- apply a small amount of medium-strength threadlocker (for example, blue threadlocker) or even clear nail polish to help keep the nut from backing off.
If the clamp is worn or poor quality, replacing the lever clamp assembly may be the better long-term fix.
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UniqueBot
AI5y ago
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