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Crane Step on


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Here is my drawing of the mount:

http://s1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/...=cranemount.jpg

 

Sound likes, some of you just know the crane by looking at its picture!

Some of you are so lucky to be spoiled by big budget production;

Unfortunate operator likes me has to use non-Hollywood and No-brand-name equipment. And, yes, safety is my first concern. I don't gamble my life. And, I love to try new stuff!

 

The so called "chiclet, plastic, bad materials, ...." crane performs much better than its spec stated.

I used it a lot with and without steadicam.

Yes, the crane crane is small but very strong.

I was about 165lbs in weight and 5.6ft at that time.

It was Master Film system and an Arri 535 with 400ft mag.

I didn't feel safe the first time I saw it.

So I asked production to let me stand on it first to test w/o the steadicam system.

(I always check the bubble of the crane to make sure it is level before step on)

I, then, asked my assistant to stand on it with me.

It was strong; no metal cracking stretching sound.

I also tested its panning ability with 2 person on it.

It worked fine and smooth with all different highs.

 

Of course, always do a test on any crane before you put your steadicam system on;

no matter if it a Chapman or a "chiclet"

 

Be brave and fly safe.

Ken "trust on the performance NOT the outside appearance" Nguyen.

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Lets see if this video works.

 

Interesting gimbal grip Eric..

 

 

Why do you say that?

 

Well.. just curious, gives this more feel in the rig or does it feel more secure this way.. just wondering that's all..

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I'm pretty sure that it depends on the crane operator/grip. These Tulip cranes are used worldwide, but probably mainly in Europe. I do not see any structural reason why this crane should tip-over more than others of similar size and build.

They are certified, welding tested etc. Their design is not exceptional.

 

As I recall, the base of the Tulip is undersize compared to subsequent designs.

 

I will now only get on cranes that can accommodate a safety grip as Ron mentioned. Another rule of thumb for me is if I am up on the crane and shift my weight, it shouldn't cause the crane to shimmy.

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Eric,

I noticed in the video that your right hand is on the top of the arm through the entire shot, not using the gimbal (ergo?) handle. Is that a technique you use often? I have not seen that before.

 

Colin Donahue

 

 

I don't use a Ergo handle, my right hand goes wherever it wants to. sometimes that's the arm and sometimes its the gimbal. It makes no difference

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