Should you lubricate a new tripod’s leg locks and center column threads?
Asked 9/18/2024
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I have a new tripod and, while learning to use it, I wondered if the threaded parts would work more smoothly with a little dry silicone lubricant. I’m mainly thinking about the collar leg-lock threads and the center column lock. Since lubrication can sometimes make tightening feel more consistent, is it a good idea to lubricate these parts on a new tripod, or should they be left dry unless they get dirty or exposed to salt water?
Originally by David D. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
David D
1y ago
2 Answers
2
It looks like you have a carbon fiber tripod with plastic leg locks. Whether it's a Gitzo, Really Right Stuff, Manfrotto, Benro, etc., the maintenance is pretty much all the same.
You don't need to lubricate the friction lock thread. In fact, any lubricant, including dry silicone grease, will likely attract and retain dust and grit, trapping it in the lock threads.
This RRS tripod breakdown and cleaning only recommends greasing the washers and bolts in the shoulder/apex joints with synthetic grease (w/ PTFE). Everything else (legs, leg locks, etc.) are just cleaned with mild soapy water and dried, reassembled without lubricants.
The locks in your tripod can be cleaned with a toothbrush and water. Just do it frequently enough to prevent buildup of dust, debris, salty water, etc., and you'll be fine.
Originally by scottbb. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
scottbb
1y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Usually no. For a new tripod, the threaded friction locks and center-column lock are generally meant to be used dry. Adding lubricant—including dry silicone products—can attract and hold dust, grit, and other debris, which can make the locks feel worse over time and increase wear.
Typical tripod maintenance is to keep the legs, lock threads, and similar parts clean: rinse or wipe with mild soapy water if needed, use a toothbrush for the threads, dry thoroughly, and reassemble without lubricant.
The only parts sometimes greased are specific washers or bolts in the tripod’s shoulder/apex joints, using an appropriate synthetic grease, but that does not usually apply to the leg-lock or center-column threads.
So for a new tripod: don’t lubricate the lock threads unless the manufacturer specifically recommends it. Keep them clean and dry instead.
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