wall spreaders or something

[smelni]

This is less of a lighting question and more of a grip question.

we would like to rig a bar across a 12 foot room to hang a couple of props on - about 20 lbs worth.

Is a wall spreader and a pipe the way to do this? will the wall spreader damage the walls or is it a pressure mount system?

thanks

[j]

I would use a 2x4 wall spreader and put a 1/8 applebox, or pancake inbetween the spreader and wall to prevent damage. You might also want to put a bit ov duvateen to keep the paint from chipping. Also put it up against a stud if you can find one. For extra support you can brace either side with 2x4s. I know you may see them in the shot, but art department can dress it to match.

-J

[Matthew B. Moore]

I would use a 2x4 wall spreader and put a 1/8 applebox, or pancake inbetween the spreader and wall to prevent damage. You might also want to put a bit ov duvateen to keep the paint from chipping. Also put it up against a stud if you can find one. For extra support you can brace either side with 2x4s. I know you may see them in the shot, but art department can dress it to match.

-J
That about gets it.

[Shawn Murphy]

I've never used a spreader but have been preparing for an inevitable scenario where I will, is this the typical kind of hardware that you use:

http://www.setgrip.com/images/2x4_wall_spreader.jpg

[j]

yup.

[GenJerDan]

There are also "self-contained" versions (over here, anyway). Telescoping poles with rubber feet on each end, varying lengths.

(Some glimpses of what I mean on this page: http://www.changedcrocodile.com/Films/AWTY/BTS.html Up at the ceiling in the still photos.)

[j]

Crazy rig dude!

Bogen makes them, they call them the Autopole, in LA they're called a polecat.

I wouldn't trust one to span 12' though.

I've often wondered how those load bars they sell in truck stops would work. They sell what would be an 8' polecat equivelent for like $20. Anybody ever try one?

-Jay

[Filmmaker04]

Well if its a typical truck load bar, it has hooks on either end that fit into notches on the walls of the trailer. So for any where but inside a truck, it would be of no use. I like the 2x4 idea, seems inexpensive and sturdy. Throw some furni pads on the wall to protect them from scrapes and you should be set.

[Shawn Murphy]

I'll be looking for those studs even though I imagine it wouldn't need to be cranked too tight to hold a 2-4 bank flo or a single tungsten as big as a 1k or Arri 650, but I'd rather err on being too snug than having it fall and hurt someone and.or damage the lights. I'll bet there are stories of grips who've cranked those right through a wall (or at least cracked a few) ;-)