Warning, balance stud could break off.

[Jerry Hill]

Jeff Muhlstock docking bracket report.

I fed-x a complete new docking bracket to Jeff as a loaner.

After numerous email and a phone conversations Jeff finally agreed to send me his docking bracket back that was in question.

 

After receiving the bracket I examined it very closely. I called Jeff to report the problem. The bracket was purchased in 2002. 9 years ago. Going on the evidence that I see it appears to me that the balance stud came loose. A more detailed description is that the counter bore in the balance bar was very tight, like a press fit. Without the stud on the screw you could not turn the screw with a T-handle. So the balance stud was never able to get tight. Why that is I am not sure. I am not sure if the counter bore was damaged from the screw or what. With the screw not being tight the weight load is directly on the screw. There is evidence on the stud and top of the balance bar that indicates it bending over which tells me there was a small air gap between the stud and the balance bar or being loose.

 

Having said all that, the stud could have worked loose after 9 years of hard use, or the screw became fatigued and finally broke. I Loctite all the studs in when assembled.

 

As a result, I have replaced the balance bar and balance studs and screws at no charge to Mr. Muhlstock. Show me another manufacture that will warranty their product after Nine years?

 

I would suggest checking the screws for tightness periodically just to make sure.

 

When I was teaching workshops I always taught to never leave your sled on the balance studs unattended and too play it safe always keep a hand on the sled. It is just a safe practice to get into. No mater how’s docking bracket you are using.

 

Also just to let you guys know. If you purchase a docking bracket from Tiffen, as to their request it will be a little different. They requested the levers and thumb knob be anodized Tiffen Blue. The balance bar is anodized black and is shorter by two inches. Everything else is the same. I have also made the small diameter docking rings for the Flyer, Zephyr, Pilot and the .500” balance studs. (GAD1)

 

Jerry Hill[

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