Time for a new plate?

[qleak]

I have a used Bogen (manfrotto) 3030 head on my tripod legs. The following setup has caused me problems:

• Nikon D7100 (765 g)
• Sigma 18-35mm f1.8 (800g)

Shooting in portrait mode has caused the thread to come off twice. Thankfully it just tilted sideways and didn't fall on the ground. The 2nd time I really had screwed it in well, so I'm not really blaming that anymore (should I?).

Is it time for a new RC2 plate? or a new tripod head?

Thoughts?

 

[tirediron]

No, it's time to ditch the RC2 altogether! IMO, the RC2 is really only suitable for the smallest DSLRs w/ kit lens, and is really meant for bridge, P&S, and 'handy-cam' style video cameras. Consider moving up the RC6, or better yet, the hex plate.

 

[qleak]

No, it's time to ditch the RC2 altogether! IMO, the RC2 is really only suitable for the smallest DSLRs w/ kit lens, and is really meant for bridge, P&S, and 'handy-cam' style video cameras. Consider moving up the RC6, or better yet, the hex plate.

Thanks for that. I was able to cancel my order for new plates with Adorama. It's a little disappointing that the weight capacity of the plate is nowhere near the publish 6kg capacity of the head.

There must be a torque issue with a long heavy lens like the 18-35mm f1.8. I've never heard of a lens collar for a wide-angle, but it would probably help.

Anyone have any pan-tilt head suggestions with RC6 or hex plate?

 

[beachrat]

No, it's time to ditch the RC2 altogether! IMO, the RC2 is really only suitable for the smallest DSLRs w/ kit lens, and is really meant for bridge, P&S, and 'handy-cam' style video cameras. Consider moving up the RC6, or better yet, the hex plate.

Thanks for that. I was able to cancel my order for new plates with Adorama. It's a little disappointing that the weight capacity of the plate is nowhere near the publish 6kg capacity of the head.

There must be a torque issue with a long heavy lens like the 18-35mm f1.8. I've never heard of a lens collar for a wide-angle, but it would probably help.

Anyone have any pan-tilt head suggestions with RC6 or hex plate?

A used 3047.

 

[qleak]

Some more info on this. I took my camera and plate into the local pro camera shop, also to check out what they have to offer.

I showed the fellows there the lens camera and tripod mount. They mentioned that the cork on the (ancient) RC2 plate is flat an no longer sticking. Now that they mention it the cork is torqued out of position on the plate itself.

According to them, it should be able to hold my 1.6kg camera / lens no problem with a new plate.

I think I'm willing to try out a new plate, but will watch the fixture for any movement very carefully when in portrait.