Gimbal Maintenance and Cleaning Deep Dive Video

[Tom Wills]

Hello friends! In early May, Megan Masur, SOC organized a get-together of the NYC Steadicam Operators Practice Group where I lead a class on Steadicam Maintenance and Modifications. We recorded the class for those who could not make it, and also for broader distribution. Here it is, in video form, a nearly 50 minute video talking about the theory and practice of gimbal cleaning and lubrication.

Please as always cross-reference my techniques with what is referenced from your manufacturer, and this information is presented without warranty and for educational purposes only.
 

[Benoit C. Gauthier]

Thanks for doing this Tom! Always thorough and detailed. 

Cheers mate!

[Mark Sofil]

Just curious, any recommended Steadicam maintenance shops for Tiffen M2 other than Tiffen in Burbank for faster turnaround?   Good to know in advance …. Just in case.  Thanks. 

[Tom Wills]

11 minutes ago, Mark Sofil said:

Just curious, any recommended Steadicam maintenance shops for Tiffen M2 other than Tiffen in Burbank for faster turnaround?   Good to know in advance …. Just in case.  Thanks. 

I’ve been starting up a small maintenance shop in my workshop in New Jersey, doing maintenance and mods for quite a few operators. Obviously I can’t do warranty service, but for out of warranty repairs and maintenance and especially modifications, I’m happy to throw my hat in the ring if it makes sense geographically. If you’re on the west coast, I might check with the folks at Apex Cinema Gear, since I know they are working with Robert Luna who is an incredible resource for rig mechanicals (As well as both Justin and Stephen at Apex who do great work). There may be other resources (especially elsewhere in the world), and lead times may vary, but at least there are options!