Arca-Swiss Z1 question

[Chris Brennan]

I bought an Arca-Swiss Z1 ball head with their screw clamp last week at a superb price. Although I wanted to get one with a straight platform, and screw on a RRS lever-lock clamp, at the price I got it for, I'd live with it. But I discovered today, in the field, that the knob to the clamp is NOT captive! Although I was able to find it in the grass, I was really annoyed! I'll probably void the warranty by removing the clamp and putting either a RRS or a Kirk clamp on myself but I can't think of any other solutions... Anyone have any ideas?

[David Stephens]

I hadn't noticed that. I'll keep an eye on mine, but I have no solution for you.

[Jeff Cashdollar]

There is a link in "Useful Links" under the Resource thread that lists:
http://www.precisioncameraworks.com/

As an authorized Arca-Swiss service center - hope that helps?

[Chris Brennan]

I actually contacted Precision Camera Works but they said that they wouldn't modify a new Aca-Swiss under warranty. But I made an "executive decision" and purchased a Kirk QR replacement clamp specifically designed for the Arca-Swiss heads. I'll remove the Arca-Swiss one and put on the Kirk, and hopefully that will solve the issue.

[Jeff Cashdollar]

Chris, nice creative solution - well done.

Let me know if you need anything.

[Chris Brennan]

The Kirk clamp arrived several days ago, and it took me less than 2 minutes to remove the faulty Arca-Swiss clamp and replace it. The Z1 now works perfectly with the Kirk clamp which is very nicely made!

[Gene C. Callison]

Chris,

I have been using the same ballhead as you purchased since it came out. You are supposed to open the clamp far enough to dismount your camera and maybe another turn. There is simply no need to loosen it an additional 5 turns thus causing the knob to fall off. It has never been an issue with me.

Gene

[David Stephens]

I have been using the same ballhead as you purchased since it came out. You are supposed to open the clamp far enough to dismount your camera and maybe another turn. There is simply no need to loosen it an additional 5 turns thus causing the knob to fall off. It has never been an issue with me.

That's been my experience also and I'm not worried enough about it falling out to make a change; however, I DO agree, that for essentially no cost, it'd be nice of A-S would produce it with a captive screw, engraved horizontal panning markings with actual numbers for reference. It's really an excellent ballhead, but it falls just a degree or two short of perfection due relatively low cost ommisions.

[Chris Brennan]

Chris,

I have been using the same ballhead as you purchased since it came out. You are supposed to open the clamp far enough to dismount your camera and maybe another turn. There is simply no need to loosen it an additional 5 turns thus causing the knob to fall off. It has never been an issue with me.

Gene

Gene -

Perhaps with yours it took 5 turns after the lens plate was in for the knob fall off but, for me, it only took 3.... Granted I was getting used to the head and the funky double dove-tail, and I was paying more attention to the lens plate... Still, having a captive screw can't be all that expensive to manufacture. But I don't have to worry about that now that I have the Kirk.