Tripod Leg Sticks, Help Please

[Rodney9]

Hello,

My Velbon Sherpa 250R/F tripod has one leg that will slowly get tight in two of the three sections over a few weeks.
The bottom section yesterday became completely stuck in and the next section was getting tighter.
After continually trying to pull it out last night, this morning and this afternoon it finally came free and now inexplicably, but happily, both sections move freely.
Should I do anything to prevent this happening again ?

Thanks,
Rodney

[Rodney9]

Well I rang the photography store where i bought it from and they said to use WD40.

I'd be a little worried getting oil all over my camera, lens etc.

Any opinions ?

[VTphotog]

I would be more worried that the petroleum solvents would attack the various plastics in the latching and locking mechanisms of the tripod. A dry lubricant, such as a spray on Teflon would probably be preferred. It also doesn't attract dirt and dust.

brian

[Hawgwild]

Graphite powder, sold to free sticking locks, will work, and not attract dirt.