Stripped Tripod Socket Help

[Bill Burk]

My Newton New-Vue VC3 has a steel thread insert in otherwise aluminum base. If that got messed up, there is room for a nut or wing-nut if I had to improvise. Any chance you could do the same?

[DarkroomDan]

Hi Guys,
I went to mount my Newton Vue/Brand 17 (4x5) ...

Wow -- I haven't heard of Brand 17 in years. I have one that I bought from a guy in the late '70s. As I recall, I paid $40 for the camera, lens, a few holders, and most of a box of film. It was my introduction to large format. I still have the thing though I haven't used it since about '82. After seeing your post I dug mine out to look at it. The shutter still seems to fire at all speeds but the bellows is pretty much petrified.

I don't really have anything to add to the repair suggestions already offered. I just wanted to thank you for a blast from the past.

Dan

[paul ron]

Hey if that picture is what you have then all you need to do is get another 3/8 to 1/4" insert.

In fact I like the idea of taping a 3/8th thread then using one of those inserts so it can be more versatile. Good call on that one.

.

[spleenrippa]

If it looks like the image which I have hopefully attached and has a couple of slots for a screwdriver to fit, then it is very likely an insert and you just need to get another one. I assume that you are in the US, in which case someone near you probably has one they could send you. I am in the UK. If you are closer to me, I could send you one.


Steve.

Ah, I see... Unfortunately, mine appears nothing like that
I've taken a proper look now, and it appears as though someone didn't like the original 3/8 hole, and instead of using a proper insert, used a (looks like brass) helicoil to reduce the size to 1/4.... If you shine a light in, you can see the that threads end halfway up the original tripod socket.
At this point, I think I will have to epoxy on the quick release plate in order to use the camera without major surgery.
Anyone have a spare Brand 17 or field cam they wanna sell me?

[paul ron]

Replace the insert? If it is a helicoil or other brand replacement, they have a removal tool, an auto shop can do it for ya? What can they charge... $10?

.

[Steve Smith]

You should be able to drill out the insert quite easily if it is brass. Start with a drill just slightly larger than the hole and increase in diameter - but don't go bigger than 1/4!"

Another method would be to superglue a 1/4" bolt into the thread then unscrew it from the 3/8" thread.


Steve.