Hi all!
tl;dr how to adjust the side tilt on a Majestic?
My first post here now that I’m spending more of my energy in lf.
First some context so I can clearly formulate the question without feeling like an idiot.
A 3 way tripod head can rotate (pan), tip it forward and back, and tilt it side to side.
A majestic geared head is geared only forward / back, rotates around its dented post on a primitive hand screw tightened collar on its center post, and similarly tilts side to side just like a traditional 3-way head. Hipsters seem to really like these Majestic heads for large format because they can hold a 35lb camera, and can be purchased for only about $100.
My Majestic 1201 has a 6”x7” platform and sits on an aluminum center post I had machined to accept a standard 3/8-16 screw so it can sit on my ancient Gitzo series 5 tele studex.
The problem with the head is after completely loosening the lock, the side to side tilt is stiff. So stiff, I have to yank it it back and forth a few times until it’s close to centered, after which I have to wait a few seconds as it wanders back before deciding if it needs another go. Precisely setting the position is is impossible on that axis only. I’ve tried partially disassembled the unit to see if there is anything to adjust or relubricate, without success.
I know somebody is going to say off topic it’s crazy to lug around this 22lb monstrous combination, why? I agree, I mostly use a 4x5 field camera on a Manfrotto 405 geared head on a Benro aluminum series 4 sticks. First, although I’m middle aged, I’m a fitness nut and need daily exercise. I can squat over 200lb and run a mile in about 5 1/2 mins. Second, sometimes that setup is simply not rigid enough. For example, some landscapes I like to shoot using a Fujinon 600T, and after being frustrated trying to print 16x20, I use this lens only on a Toyo studio monorail (still 4x5).
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