New Tripod head coming apart?

[shyguyfilms]

I recently purchased my first non-wally-world tripod, a Vanguard Abeo plus 323AV w/ the PH-123V fluid head, and it's doing something that I can only assume is not right.

When I first set it up to test it out, etc., I noticed that if I pan back and forth a few times, the tripod head starts to come loose from the little 'plate' that connects to the center column of the tripod. This isn't the tripod head itself coming loose from the tripod - as it's held in place with three set screws - but the tripod head is essentially coming apart.

I've attached a link to a stock image of the PH-123V fluid head with an arrow pointing to the piece that is coming loose: http://i.imgur.com/spNHhNQ.png

If I take the head off the tripod, there is what looks like two screws on the bottom of this little plate - one, which will tighten the head to the plate and will not allow the tripod to pan when tightened all the way, and the other which looks to hold the first screw in place. The second screw doesn't appear to be able to move - which may be due to loctite or some similar adhesive, but if I adjust the first screw, it either holds the tripod head firm or begins to back out.

 

[thekreative]

If its new, I'd return it and get something better made.

 

[David W. Jones]

Not trying to poo poo your choice of tripod/head, but Vanguard is what I would consider overpriced wally-world gear, and you tend to get what you pay for with their stuff. As suggested, I would return it and get something that will last.

All the best!

Dave

 

[Victor Nhat Nguyen]

I agree with everything the two above me said. I believe the most bottom rung you should go is manfrotto, Benro, and maybe even Davis and Sanford. But even these brand are not consider by many as "professionals". I'm still contemplating myself if I should get Sachtler FSB8.