Ball Lubrication

[davekiddle]

I have a Manfrotto ball head that has become a bit 'sticky' i.e. the factory applied lubricant has gone. What's the best thing to lubricate it with?

 

[mastertrinity]

we all have troubles with our balls from time to time if i was you i would just get a doctors appointment and see what he says

you did ask for that

anyway in reality i would simply use oil thats what i do with all my balls..oooo..err...ball heads

 

[davekiddle]

Yes I was waiting for a reply like that!

What sort of oil do you use - something like a 3 in 1?

 

[lawrenceots]

Especially with the title too!

 

[Kaouthia]

I'm just gonna sit and watch this thread, because I know certain people are going to be posting on it with all the worst possible bad jokes and puns.

 

[mrgubby]

Must resist obvious comments.........


Have a look here

 

[wontolla]

White Lightning! Its wax based and leaves a very fine coating of wax on the ball head after leaving for 5 mins then wiping of excess.
Wont stick to anything when handling afterwards. Bycycle shops sell it.
I use it for penknives/photo/car/hiking/cycling.

 

[User Name]

I have two different manfrotto ball heads, one says maintenance free do not lubricate. The other doesn't mention lubrication in the maintenance section of the manual, but it looks like graphite paste.

 

[MarkLP]

You could use normal grease I suppose, it'll sure make that ball move freely.

Or just normal Oil and wipe up any excess thats dripped down one of your 3 legs

 

[LongLensPhotography]

What is happening here ? Somebody wants new body, now balls need lubrication?

 

[davekiddle]

What is happening here ? Somebody wants new body, now balls need lubrication?

Well you know how it is, when balls get as much use as mine do, they need a bit of maintenance every now and again!

 

[bomberman]

i was wondering about this as i got a redsnapper for christmas. I wonder what Joe recommends? I'd guess something light like DW40/sewing machine oil/teflon dry lube

 

[Mostly Vintage Cameras]

Just copied the Manfrotto service centre address from the Bogen Imaging website, who now appear to be called Manfrotto Distributor it seems. I would suggest you give them a call for advice:-

Manfrotto and Gitzo Service Centre
Unit 23 Hewitts Industrial Estate
Cranleigh
Surrey
GU6 8LW

Tel 01483 542928
Fax 01483 542921

Email: service@uk.bogenimaging.com

 

[Yardbent]

very fine oil such as Bicycle oil - wipe off excess

 

[Sarin]

The original stuff is a graphite like grease so thats what i put on mine and it works fine again.