My Velbon Luxi-F tripod came today. I was aware it was used and it is in sparkling condition, but I noticed that two of the bubble levels are empty - the liquid has dissolved. I read that that happens...its not a HUGE deal but does anyone know if Velbon sells replacement levels? ; It appears that the bubble level may possibly screw out.
i have no idea but i don't think i have ever used the levels. ; i wouldn't worry about it. ; use your viewfinder to make sure you are level.
save up those dollars, and get yourself an acratech, the one with the built in bubble, costly at over $300, but worth it, just in weight savings alone for travel, it's now my travel head of choice, weight is less than one pound, but supports over 10, these folks know machinist work, it's all they have done for a living for years, they made their bones with speed parts for funny cars, top fuel and drag boats, so they know how to save weight while maintaining strength
I would also suggest a different tripod head. ; I know I can't afford to drop $300 on one (although that does look like an awesome option for the future). ; If you're in the same boat, consider the Manfrotto 486RC2. ; It's cheap, and works well.
I actually have the Manfrotto 488RC4. ; Very similar to the RC2 except has the bubble levels built in. ; It is also strong enough to support my D300 (with battery grip and 70-200mm lens) with lots of weight to spare. ; Little more than the RC2 but again, worth it. ; This also has a feature of separate locks for the ball and rotation of the head. ; This makes it nice to rotate the head for panos without unlocking the ball itself. ; Sorry just checked B&H and the 488RC4 is discontinued with the 498RC4 in its place. ; This has the same features though. ;
