Manfrotto Junior Geared Head Locking Problem

[russellsnr]

Hi, As per title I have a Manfrotto Junior Geared Head but the locking lever is very loose and does not click across when I put the plate in.
Anyone no how to tighten up the locking lever please?
Thanks
Russ

[DanK]

This may not be helpful if you want to stick with the original clamp, but you can replace it with an arca-Swiss compatible clamp from Hejnar photo on eBay. I did that years ago so that I wouldn't have to switch plates to use the geared head.

[Manfred M]

My guess is that you need a new clamp. The quick release mechanism is actually quite simple, just a cam that applies pressure and a spring that ensures the correct tension as well as a guide or guide rod to ensure that everything travels smoothly.

The most likely thing that has happened is that the spring has broken. The way mine is built, this is not a user replaceable part. I don't know the specifics of the Manfrotto design, but if it is the same as the others I own and have seen, the part is held in place by a large headed Allan screw that many (or may not be secured with something to jam the threads (Loctite)).

Get a new clamp, undo the screw holding it to the head and add a replacement part. I phone call or email to your local Manfrotto distributor should get you the right replacement part.

[russellsnr]

Thanks for the reples.
The Hejnar photo looks a good option as all my stuff has Arca fittings thus far.
The geared head is new only arrived today but don't want to send it back to Amazon if it just needs a tweak somehow.
Thanks again
Russ

[Manfred M]

Thanks for the reples.
The Hejnar photo looks a good option as all my stuff has Arca fittings thus far.
The geared head is new only arrived today but don't want to send it back to Amazon if it just needs a tweak somehow.
Thanks again
Russ

As it is brand new, I would send it back as defective or chase Manfrotto for a warranty repair.

[rpcrowe]

If "most" of your gear is Arca Compatible, I would definitely consider replacing the clamp with an Arca Compatible unit.

I don't know abut the Hejnar because I have never seen one, nor have I researched it. However, I would select a clamp which incorporates a safety lug to prevent the camera/lens from slipping out of the clamp if somehow that clamp is accidentally loosened.

Some Arca compatible units have such a tab while others do not.

[russellsnr]

Thank you for the replies but after contacting Manfrotto I have been advised to return the head to Amazon.
Thanks again
Russ