Manfrotto 468MGRC2 Cold Temperature Burst

Norm Waldroop , Feb 08, 2012; 09:16 p.m.

I'm considering buying a Manfrotto 468MGRC2 hydrostatic ballhead, but I've just read a user complaint about a failure at cold temperature. The reviewer said (on the B&H site) his head froze and burst during a long overseas flight. Manfrotto later told him that head can't be exposed to temperatures below -10F. I don't see anything about temp limits on the Manfrotto site. I have no doubt many fly in luggage in cargo holds which can drop well below -10F when not heated. The ambient temp at jet altitudes is -65F, so I'm surprised more users aren't complaining.
Can anybody share some experience on this? Thanks!

Responses

Damon D'Amato , Feb 08, 2012; 11:03 p.m.

Probably some expansion due to the lower air pressure, as well.

Tom Blouin , Mar 29, 2012; 11:24 a.m.

The "flip levers" on the legs of my Manfrotto 3036 have snapped off in cold weather, closer to 32f/0C; I ordered the replacement parts ordered from B&H. I have used Manfrotto since the early 1980's but I do not trust the integrity of the lightweight/non-metalic parts.

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