My fluid head seems to be...clicking?

I

Inflictionmitch

Member
Very odd, this. I just got home with a new manfrotto 503 fluid head, and it's truly fantastic...but...and this is a mighty big but... SOMETHING in the head is making the odd clicking sound. It's not specifically associated with any one move and yes, all elements are unlocked and loosened. It seems to be coming from the Fluid Drag control on the right hand side. Has anyone experienced this kind of thing before? Any tips would be appreciated, big time.
 
Re: My fluid head seems to be...clicking?

THere was a similar post earlier with an almost identical problem. Do a search for it and I'm sure you'll find it.

Unfourtunately, I dont think there was ever any conclusion as to the cause. Maybe you should take it back to the store and show them in person?
 
Re: My fluid head seems to be...clicking?

Does the clicking affect the smoothness or your tilts? If not, it may just be a matter of lubricant working itself in. I have a 503 and will very occasionally hear what sounds like a small click, but it isn't associated with any stickiness, hesitation, or bump with head movement. Most "fluid" heads (even expensive ones) consist of a series of metal plates heavily coated with lubricants. Since your head is new, I'd probably just exchange it to be on the safe side.
 
Re: My fluid head seems to be...clicking?

don't have my 503 in front of me right now, but...
there are three little screws on the bottom of the head... are these tightened? if they come undone even a little, it causes my head to click and to start a pan with a little jerk. tightening them fixes the problem...
 
Re: My fluid head seems to be...clicking?

Thanks for all the input, folks. It doesn't appear to have anything to do with the 3 screws. Would any of you have a link to where that previous discussion along these lines might be found? I've searched with every conceivable keyword related to either Manfrotto or noise, and I can't find it anywhere.

I guess the best thing to do would be to give the head a workout this weekend in order to allow for any "settling" pieces etc. If the clicks are still clicking Monday, I suppose I'll bring it back. That would really be a drag.
 
Re: My fluid head seems to be...clicking?

Nevermind, found it. Doesn't sound like there was any resolution to this scenario. Is Manfrotto's quality slipping? I love the 503, but this thing's gone on Monday if the clicks are still happening.
 
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