Replacing Gitzo Tripod Leg-Lock Shims- possible?

[eric black]

I have a Gitzo 1325 tripod that suffers when I wade around in water with it due to the "natural fiber" leg lock shims which swell when they get wet. Im curious if anyone has replaced these shims with anything that is a little less prone to swelling following immersion (ie perhaps plastic pieces of the same size)? The newer tripods have a different material piece in addition to something that doesnt allows leg rotations (but that is another matter that I dont care much about). If you have a recipe for success, please share. My remedy currently is to take off the bottom section of the leg, dump out the water, and then leave the tripod opened at mazimum extension until the legs dry- kind of tedious on a day with lots of shooting in water.

[David R Munson]

I think Gitzo has newer, non-absorbent bushings available. You'll want to get in touch with their parts department

Start here:

http://www.gitzo.us/service/service+%26+repair/