How to fix a stiff Majestic head

[popdoc]

Just inherited a majestic head and it’s super stiff from decades of neglect…
Suggestions?

[Tin Can]

Depends

is the crank bent

move on

side to side should be stiff, but a heavy camera will ease that

if you are up to task take it apart clean out old grease

then use the right modern grease

I have 3 Majestic Heads

they will not need repair in my lifetime

[Rick A]

Those are pretty straight forward and easy to disassemble. Take it apart, clean all the old grease out and re lube with a good quality synthetic grease then reassemble

[LabRat]

I had an old one that stiffened up, was planning on a tear down to completely strip old greases, but I think I remember some internal parts were pinned in place, so needed plan B... Shot silicone spray (contains acetone + silicone) into base bottom opening to the drive parts, worked them a little until they moved slightly, then a little more spray until free... The acetone "refloated" the old grease and silicone lubed...

Make sure there are no plastic components inside as they can be harmed by the acetone... And try to keep the spray off painted surfaces...

Good luck!!!

Steve K

[MikasaAckerman45]

I suggest applying a suitable lubricant to the moving parts of the head, such as the joints and hinges. This can help loosen up any dried-out or stuck components. Be sure to use a lubricant that is appropriate for the specific materials and mechanisms of the head.
fnf

[Duolab123]

Those are pretty straight forward and easy to disassemble. Take it apart, clean all the old grease out and re lube with a good quality synthetic grease then reassemble

This is what I've done. 50 year old grease is crazy, like glue. I reapplied some ordinary, nothing special Mystik bearing grease smooth as silk now.

[Tracy Storer]

+1 on cleaning out the old grease and relubricating with similar thick stuff. It's not hard, but it's not fun, the old grease is a real pain to clean out, it gets everywhere, so wear gloves and have a work area with a couple layers of newspaper you can wad up and toss afterwards.

[popdoc]

Thanks!


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[Tin Can]

I will try it on one

I just found out I have 5

LOL

This is what I've done. 50 year old grease is crazy, like glue. I reapplied some ordinary, nothing special Mystik bearing grease smooth as silk now.