gimbal locks

[greg(ory) Vanhove]

Hi guy?s,

 

I?ve got a gimbal problem. I fly this Ultra for nearly two years now.

 

How can I put it, if I do a dynamic balance test, then there is nearly zero friction. If I do the same test but I tilt the lens up then the gimbal locks itself and the sled stops spinning. In other words when I spin the Steadicam with a perfect vertical post then the weight is perfectly balanced over the pan bearing. If I tilt up, make an angle backwards, it stops spinning.

 

This problem brings all the operator's unwanted movements, which are normally neutralized, to the camera.

 

What could be the problem? Is it a adjustment pin, a bearing problem, or ?

 

Thanks for the help.

Greg.

[RobVanGelder]

It is probably an adjustment from the bearings in the tilt axis. I remember i had that as well, one time, exactly as you discribe.

I adjusted the bearings in the fork, they are like screws inside the little bearings. Apparently is possible that they can be screwed in too much, making them scratch inside the pan bearing.

It is a very delicate and time consuming procedure, checking every time if the balance is ok, when you pan the rig 180 degrees.

Use those gauges that you can use for spark plugs or ignition points to make it even at both sides.