3/8 to 1/4 bushing resistant ?

[BrianShaw]

Oh, good point Dan. I had to apply a bit of file to a bushing once because it "bottomed out" prematurely. I seem to recall that was on a Rollei accessory -- a panorama head if memory serves correctly. Filed the thread end o fthe insert just a tad for a perfect fit. Re: a couple of earlier postings about over-tightening... don't do that... it is bad news almost every time.

[Steve Smith]

Another option if the bushing protrudes a little is to make a rubber plate to fit between the camera and tripod.


Steve.

[Leigh]

If the bushing is too long, file or grind the leading end to shorten it.

- Leigh

[Dan Fromm]

If the bushing is too long, file or grind the leading end to shorten it.

- Leigh

With the ones that give me trouble, length isn't the problem. They're made to go into a countersunk hole, the holes I have aren't countersunk.

[Leigh]

They're made to go into a countersunk hole, the holes I have aren't countersunk.

So countersink them. It's a $5 tool.

The countersink should be very shallow. Any significant reduction in thread length will weaken the threads.

If you prefer you can grind off the slotted face (the countersunk portion), but then you must re-cut the slot for the driver.
Depending on the specific bushing, this approach might damage the finish or external appearance.

With a little more effort you can remove the countersunk portion of the bushing, restoring a cylindrical profile.
Run a 2-inch 1/4"-20 bolt through the bushing with about 1 inch protruding at the inner end.
Chuck that end in a variable-speed power drill (masquerading as a lathe).
Run the drill at relatively low speed and take off the unwanted metal with a file.
Be sure the drill is turning the proper direction for the file to cut the work.

- Leigh

[jk0592]

Well, I am glad that basically there is no problem in using the bushing, as long as one is extra careful when setting up and/or removing the camera from the tripod. The pitfalls and the required corrections have been discussed. I had no idea that such complications could arise.

The level of help, the transmission of experience, and the technical hindsights are indeed incredible here. I hope that one day i will be able to give back what i learn...