DIY Tripod Fix? Sorta...Help...

[Elmy]

Ok So I couldn't think of another forum to post this in, it's sort of a DIY, well I need your guys help on the DIY. I'm not really skilled with thinking of how build or fix things (unless its IT related) and I need help. I recently purchased this tripod:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/243272-REG/Davis_Sanford_PROVISTA7518B_Pro_Vista_Tripod_with. html

I really like it, especially for the price and I cant find one comparable. Unfortunatley the plastic clips that hold the three braces in between the legs up are flimsy plastic and the first time I opened the legs one of them completely snapped, leaving that one leg to just dangle basically useless. I could return it for another one but it would probably just happen again. I could get my money back but I'd rather have this tripod.

Anyone know of any fixes or DIY's that I could do to reinforce these braces, and so I dont have to send it back? Someone posted in the Item feedback they had done something in their shop and now its perfect, however I cant contact them. Anyways any help would be great, thanks

[Jordan_S]

I have had that tripod for a few months w/o problems. But I can see that the spreader requires a light touch. Instead of sending back the entire tripod, you could simply request a replacement part. D&S is pretty solid. You could also simply use epoxy on the broken one. Or cruise the aisles in Home Depot, broken part in hand, and perhaps something worthwhile in plumbing will speak to you. You could also cannibalize a cheap, old tripod.

[DM_rider]

If I were you, I'd return it if you can and look for a nice used Bogen tripod or save some more money and get something better. That tripod looks like it wont last more than a year.

[Elmy]

Jordan I dont see how they could send me a replacement part as its the plastic that snapped, not something I can take off and just replace. I'm going to cruise home depot tomorrow for something though. I was thinking of gorrilla gluing what piece is left back on and then attaching something to hold it up. Idk

DM my issue is the tripod its self i built well and is something I really like, its just that one part, however integral, that is the issue and so if I can save myself the money of shipping it back and then spending more money on a bogen i'd like to. Ive used a bogen and I like this tripod better, surprisingly =/.

I emailed tiffen about the issue but no response yet. Can't expect much on the weekend. I'm going to call B&H tomorrow just about my choices, they close for passover and if I want a replacement tripod soon I have to make a decision soon.

[Jordan_S]

Looks like you can unscrew the three brace rods that feed into it with a hex key. Be careful with the leg clips, too. If you received the dolly deal, using the dolly should lock the legs into place for now.

DM's statements notwithstanding, my only gripe is its heftiness.

[Elmy]

it looks like I might actually be able to replace that part, not sure but im looking into removing the plastic piece, maybe they can after all send me a replacement part, hopefully, i dont feel like going through a returns process if I cant fix it.

[Elmy]

tiffen emailed me back today stating that they have improved reinforced braces for this tripod and they will ship me all the parts for free :D. So no need for an at home DIY fix or return, thank god.

[Jordan_S]

Hollywood ending.