How does a rod system mount to tripod?

[mainstreetprod]

I have an AF100 and want to use a follow focus and matte box, but am not familiar with the rod mounting setup. How long do the rods need to be if only using those two items? How do the rods mount to my tripod plate? Anyone buy an inexpensive Ebay setup that works?

 

[wgzn]

you could probably get away with 12" but 18" would give you room to grow.
as far as i know, all baseplates (you have to have a baseplate to use a rod system) have 3/8 and 1/4 holes on the bottom to accept tripod plates

 

[kylevant]

I've seen baseplates without tripod mounts, but you can usually pick them up as an extra (the tripod mount that is). My ebay rig (with a tripod mount) should be here next week, and then I'll check the quality out and report back.

 

[Michael Carter]

Every baseplate I've owned has 1/4 and 3/8 holes. Just attach your quick release to it.

Handy thing to have: a drill bit and a tap for each of those sizes. I run around the house all day saying "I'd tap that".

I've never maxed my 12" rods on my DSLR... but lately I've been wanting to use my 80-200 2.8 more often. My 28-70 2.8 does make me push the matte box all the way to the front. You might look into rods with threaded ends that can be extended.

You may find in the course of a few months you'll buy several different system parts and develop what works for you. I started with a Cavision setup, moved over to a different base plate, then different grips. I have a sack of bits & pieces of rod system. It can be kind of a frankenstein thing when you get it to your liking.