I wanted to share some info that might save you some trouble. The thumbscrew that you tighten when securing the QR clamp to the QR plate is brass. Why? I don't know. Anyway, I broke mine recently in the field. Obviously, it was a pain since the 500mm won't carry or support itself. I contacted Manfrotto, they told me to call the parts department and order a new one. I ordered 2 replacement assemblies reasonably priced at $12 something apiece- one to install and the other for a spare.
So if you're using this head, you might want to go ahead and contact them and keep a spare in your bag. It's very soft metal and obviously the weakest link in the chain. Avoid unecessary loss of time in the field!
Exactly what I did. But then you have to use an allen wrench to tighten down on the QR plate. It is no longer a "quick" release, and it's cumbersome to always have an allen wrench in my pocket. Simply replacing the broken brass screw which fits inside the thumb lever isn't an option since it's a custom made piece.
Couldn't find one at Lowe's or Home Depot. Also, when the screw broke, the assembly came apart and I lost a few springs in the long grass. Replacement parts needed all around.
ATTN: Manfrotto 393 users
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