Tripod Parts Replacement: What’s The Right One?

Introduction 

It’s a beautiful day out there. You have the perfect opportunity to capture a stunning picture or record a delightful inspiring vlog. You set up your tripod and camera. But sadly the tripod is shaky.

This makes the whole recording or picture just a waste of snap! If you are facing this scenario, your tripod part might be needing replacements. 

“But there are so many ways to replace tripod parts!” you might be wondering. This might stress you out. You should know that there are many Tripod Parts Replacement options. 

It can get confusing in choosing the right options. But don’t you worry. We have come up with 7 different options to restore your tripod. You can replace all of them or some of them depending on your needs.

So, take a little time and sort which way you are going to fix your tripod. And capture that perfect moment in your camera.

 

Quick Release Plate: “DaVoice 44mm Tripod Quick Release Plate”

Product Overview

A Quick-Release plate is one of the most important things for camera stability. Here, having a QR plate mounted to the tripod mount will allow you to attach a camera, or a phone tripod adapter easily. 

Although a tripod has a built-in quick release plate, it can be upgraded to a better one. So we present to you, the “DaVoice 44mm Tripod Quick Release Plate”. 

Also, the size of the tapered square base that fits into the tripod is 1 ¾” (44mm x 44mm). It has a ¼ “ camera mounting screw. 

Added to that, the DaVoice QR plate features a metal pin and a high-quality metal thumbscrew. So, you won’t be needing any extra tools for tightening the screw. They also offer extra QR plates so that you can swap.

Furthermore, this Quick-Release plate is best compatible with Amazon Basic 60”. Also it works on some versions of Ambico, Targus, Velbon, Ravelli, Sunpak, Davis & Sanford Vista Explorer 60”, Zomei, Vivitar, Polaroid, etc.

One thing about this plate is that it is low heat resistant. So while you are in a relatively hotter place you need to keep it cool.

Pros

• Easy to Swap Devices.
• Extra QR Plates.
• High-Quality Metal Thumb Screw.

Cons

• Not Heat Resistant.

 

Ball Head: “Pergear TH3 Pro DSLR Tripod Ball Head”

Product Overview

The “Ball Head” is another thing that is really necessary for a tripod. Basically, a ball head is an apparatus placed on top of a tripod that increases stability. And it even provides accurate rotation of the camera. 

The best thing is that they’re quite lighter than traditional pan-tilt tripod heads. 

Attaching a good ball head on your tripod can provide you with precision. So, we present to you the “Pergear TH3 Pro DSLR Tripod Ball Head”. Being only 406g, this ball head provides an 8kg loading capacity. 

It also enhances the perception of position via its vertical and horizontal bubble levels. The base comes with Index Marking to provide more precise control. 

Here, the U-shaped groove design helps for easy switching from vertical mode to horizontal and vice-versa. It has 3 knobs for horizontal/ vertical/side adjustment. It also has a 360-degree swivel to get the most view in your capture.

On top of this, the aluminum alloy construction and anodized surface maintain the durability of this product. The ball joint is pretty smooth for versatile angle movement. To protect your devices from the sudden plunge, this ball head comes with fine-tuning damping. 

Although we have faced some difficulties tightening the “Pergear TH3 Pro Ball Head”. The screws can’t be tightened by a simple flathead screwdriver. But other than that, it’s a great ball head on a budget.

Pros

• Index Marking for Precise Control.
• Durable Aluminum Alloy Body.
• 3 Knobs For Adjustments.
• 8kg Loading Capacity.

Cons

• Screws Are Hard to Tight.

 

Phone Mount Holder: Ailun Tripod Phone Mount Holder

Product Overview

If you are working with your phone, your tripod must need a phone mount holder. A mount holder gives you the stability for a phone and can let you use it like a professional camera. And for that, we present to you “Ailun Tripod Phone Mount Holder”.

Firstly, “Ailun Tripod Phone Mount Holder” has two options for the phone clip. You can screw it directly to your tripod with a pivoting arm giving access to 360 degrees rotation. You can also remove the pivoting arm and then mount it on your tripod. 

Despite the phone, you can also switch to another device like a camera and camcorder. the swivel is easy to change any device’s orientation. It is also extremely easy to get an adjusted release or hold on your device.

This mount holder is compatible with most phones. The width of the device should be between 56mm – 105mm. The ¼” standard screw thread at the bottom makes it attachable to any regular-sized tripod.

The phone mount holder is portable and compact. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry in your pocket or bag. This product is great support for vlogging, Facebook live, live streaming, and other captures.

With its lightweight design, it can get a little shaky. Especially when you hit the record button, you need to wait for 5-10 seconds. Because the bracket vibrates and the initial video might get a little blurry.

Pros

• Compatible With Most Phones.
• Easy To Install.
• Portable and Compact.
• Precise Orientation.

Cons

• Vibrates For Initial 5-10 Seconds.

 

Nut Mount: HJ Garden 1/4″-20 Thread Tripod Nut Connection Mounts

Product Overview

To give your mounts a perfect fit you will need mount nuts. That’s why for a good fit, we present “HJ Garden ¼”-20 Thread Tripod Nut”. This is an excellent mount nut for any type of tripod or phone mount.

These mount nuts are made of aluminum alloy which makes them way more lightweight and portable. The material has higher strength and the body is corrosion resistant. 

The mounting nut comes with a center standard ¼” in size and 20 threaded holes. Making this compatible for any kind of tripod l. The barrel nut ensures the fitting on your camera. 

The HJ Garden nuts are very lightweight, only weighing 0.634 ounces and with the dimension of 2.4″ x1.54″ x 0.94″. Making it compact and portable. 

It also has good replacement accessories for articulating magic arms. 

Pros

• High-Quality Aluminum Alloy.
• Replacement Accessories For Articulating Arm.
• Barrel Nut.
• Lightweight Design.

Cons

• Could be more durable

 

D-ring: HJ Garden 2pcs 1/4-20 Thread D-Ring

Product Overview

A D-ring screw is commonly used for a quick release plate in a tripod. It is quite necessary for keeping the plate sturdy. So, one of the best D-ring screws you can get in the market is the “HJ Garden ¼ – 20 Thread D-Ring Screw”. 

This product has approximately 17mm of the screw shaft, 12mm of threaded length (No thread length 5mm), and 16mm of outer diameter. The structure is quite compact, therefore easy to carry. 

This is made of high-quality durable stainless steel. The design is an example of fine workmanship. The stainless steel helps resist any rust or corrosion on the screw. Which makes this D-ring durable. The D shaft is made of zinc alloy which makes it more sturdy.

The “HJ Garden D-ring Screw” can be connected to various models of DV, DC, and camera. Also, it is compatible with some camera tripod quick-release boards. 

This product can be also used with monopods, light stands, ball heads, lens plates, lens collars. However, if you are using them on any camera straps, this screw might be a little too small. For the right fit, you can check out bigger sizes.

Pros

• Compact Dimension.
• Durable Stainless Steel Body.
• Rust & Corrosion Free.
• Compatible With Many Devices.

Cons

• Too Small For Camera Strap.

 

Foot Screw: PZRT 3/8 Inch Stainless Steel Foot Screw

Product Overview

Another piece of equipment you can replace to have a stable tripod is an afoot screw. A foot screw helps the bubble level on a tripod level with the horizon. So you can get a perfect horizon line and the pictures are balanced.

Therefore, we have found one of the best foot crews which is the “PZRT 3/8 Stainless Steel Foot Screw”. This foot screw is ideal to level your camera with your tripod. 

PZRT foot screws are widely used in photography tripods, unicorn tripods, and foot nails for trekking poles. Especially, monopods.

Besides this, stainless steel makes the structure more durable. The tip of the head is tapered and the dungeon’s gripped. The middle hexagonal treatment is suitable for fastening and the tail thread is deep. 

Despite all of the benefits, the weight of the foot screw can be a little downside. It weighs almost 2 ounces. But that can be overlooked and this product is highly recommended.

Pros

• Level Precisely With Horizon.
• Durable Stainless Steel Body.
• Hexagonal Treatment for Suitable Fastening.
• Deep Tail Thread.

Cons

• A Bit Heavy.

 

Weight Hook: Gitzo G1040 Center Weight Hook

Product Overview

Lastly, we present to you “Gitzo G1040 Center Weight Hook. A weight hook is there for you to increase the stability of your tripod. Give your lightweight tripod a significant weight to put on so that it stays more steady.

The “Gitzo G1040 Center Column Weight Hook” gives you the stability for razor-sharp pictures. It hangs accurately in the center.

The dimension of the Gitzo hook is only 4.5” L x 1.2” H x 3.6” W. That gives you compatibility to carry it anywhere. Also, the weight on this hook is quite unnoticeable.

This hook is a great replacement for Gitzo 3,4 & 5 series tripods. The only downside of this hook is it doesn’t have any spring design. So, it doesn’t retract when weight is put. 

Otherwise, it is a great budget hook to enhance your tripod.

Pros

• Compact Size.
• Cost-Effective. 
• Provides Stability.
• Lightweight Structure.

Cons

• Not Spring Loaded.

 

How Should You Replace Tripod Parts?

To get the perfect picture or video a tripod is a must. The more steady the capture is the better the quality of your image. But a standard tripod often fails to fulfill a professional photographer’s need.

Therefore, enhancing your tripod by replacing some parts might be a great initiative. But there are too many options to use in your advance. So we have gathered a few options for you to consider.

Replacement Method #1: Attach a New Head 

Sometimes a more stable head can be attached to your tripod if the old one is not stable enough. Replacing ahead is quite easy. You will need to detach the previous head first.

Here, start by tightening the center column knobs and ball locking. Also, make sure to lock any other moving parts on your tripod. Hold the tripod via the center column knob. 

And to loosen the head, turn the tripod head, counterclockwise. Unscrew the head off of the tripod.

Secondly, to attach the head, you need to assemble the new head first. Lock the tripod at a comfortable height. After that, secure the pan knobs on the head. Then align the mounting screw on your tripod with the new head’s hole. 

Twist the head clockwise to tighten. Voila! You have a new head on your tripod. This will give your tripod sturdiness. We highly suggest you attach the ball head which gives a 360 degrees view. 

Replacement Method #2: Change The Old Screws

Screws are the most important part of any device, especially in a tripod. To get the precise control you need all the right screws in a tripod. 

Tripods use many screws like mount nuts, D-ring screws, foot screws, thumbscrews. Also, you can replace the screw toppers on your tripod to make the fittings tight. 

You can consider PZRT foot screws, HJ Garden Mount Nut, and D-ring. Your Quick release plate and ball head need to be aligned correctly with the tripod. And better screws can ensure your tripod stability.

Replacement Method #3: New Quick Release Plate

Here, the Quick-release plates are situated to hold the camera or device still and easily attachable. It sticks with the base in a moment, saving you time. Quick-release plates also give ease in switching between devices. 

Firstly attach the base plate to the tripod. With a D-ring screw, you can attach your tripod to a QR base plate.

The most appropriate width for almost all the tripods is 1.5 inches. Line up the plate with the camera with a bolt into the threaded hole. Then slide the plate into the quick release base of the tripod. Nicely done!

Replacement Method #4: Attach A Phone Mount Holder

The regular mount can mount any device normally. But for finer mount and wider views for your phone or camcorder, a phone mount holder can be life-saving. 

First, to attach a phone mount holder, you will need a good mount holder. Assemble the mount holder. Then drill a ¼” hole into the mounting bracket. Attach your phone mount bracket to the tripod. Insert your phone into the mount holder and use it smoothly.There are many mount holders in the market. But we highly recommend the ailun tripod phone, mount holder.

Replacement Method #5: Attach Hook For Support

A weight hook can give your tripod a steady center of gravity. Install a hook with the center column of the tripod and you will get a stabilizer for your tripod. You can put your bag or any other weight on this hook.

Drill a hole through the center column about ¼ – ½ “. Put the close end of the hook in the column and thread a bolt till tight. Now you can use any weight to stabilize your tripod. We advise you on the “Gitzo G1040 Weight Column”.

FAQs

Question: Is it illegal to have a phone car mount?

Answer: Yes, it is legal to have a phone mount in your car. But for safety purposes, you should not be using your phone to engage in any activity that distracts you.

Question: Are tripod threads universal?

Answer: Mostly, all modern tripods own a ¼ ” female thread on which you would mount a camera. That technically means all cameras can be mounted on almost all tripods. 

Question: What does a Bubble level do on a tripod?

Answer: A bubble level on a tripod is a leveling device to show how straight a tripod is standing. You can get the tripod to sit perfectly perpendicular to the ground by aligning the bubble to the center.

In Conclusion

In the end, we have provided you with ways of Tripod Parts Replacement. Now It’s your play. You get to decide the perfect suit for yourself. Therefore, do consider all the options you are getting.

Hopefully, we have made your work easier than before. So, without adieu, get on that tripod and capture your memories. And don’t forget to have a great day!