DIY Gimbal (1 Viewer)

For those who may be interested, I built this head a month or so ago to support my Pentax SMC 500mm f4.5 or Sigma 50-500mm lenses after buying a Manfrotto 393. At least I can support both now.

That looks right nice. You must have access to a metal shop or tools to do such a nice job. I recognize the Manfrotto 357 quick release, the same as comes on the 393, which I also have (http://naturephotography.fredhurteau.com/EquipmentNotes.htm#357).

I like the failsafe spring lock that insures once the plate is in, it stays in even if it's not tightened. What sort of bushings did you use to keep the lock/tension knobs working smooth, especially the tripod pivot head?

tomkeet said:

For those who may be interested, I built this head a month or so ago to support my Pentax SMC 500mm f4.5 or Sigma 50-500mm lenses after buying a Manfrotto 393. At least I can support both now.

Click to expand...

Excellent work! I take it your an engineer? it looks very similar to an old head i had before getting the wimberley although yours looks like a much sturdier item (my old one used to bend under the weight of my Bigma set-up)
Brian

Thank for your comments OXBGuide, Claymore.
I modified the Tripod pivot head bush the other day by replacing it with an old Manfrotto 115 head base. The one in the picture was made from scratch. Also lowered the main arm (3cm) and shortened camera/lens arm by 2cm.
PTFE washers and needle thrust bearings with Disc Spring Washers were use to keep things as smooth as possible.
The main arm to camera/lens bearing has Needle roller bearings.
Hope this helps.

Tom