SteadiHub
2008Sled forum

Stabilizer camera shake on Steadicam Flyer sled with heavier cameras

18 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.

What the thread found

  • Camera shake at the top of the sled during operation, particularly noticeable with cameras weighing over 6 kilograms, can result from loose mechanical connections at various points in the rig assembly
  • Common sources of shake include loose screws connecting the top stage to the post, loose post top connection to the post, play between the yoke and gimbal ring, and movement between the camera plate and the camera itself
  • Lighter cameras may mask the same mechanical problems because they exert less force on loose connections, making the issues apparent primarily with heavier camera loads
  • Play or movement in the gimbal assembly, particularly at the spinning connection point where the arm attaches and in the flat screws securing the gimbal sides, can be a source of camera shake
  • The troubleshooting sequence should begin with checking camera plate security and all fasteners on the top stage before investigating deeper gimbal issues

Depends on

  • The discussion identified potential gimbal play but did not reach a confirmed solution or determine whether bearing replacement would resolve the issue
  • No definitive guidance was provided on how to disassemble or thoroughly inspect the gimbal assembly
  • The shimming solution mentioned for yoke and gimbal ring gaps was not confirmed as successful

Parts

Top Stage

Same gear or parts

  1. 2026Upgrading an older Steadicam® MK-V with 1.5-inch post to Volt configuration or switching to the new Steadicam® Elite (1.25-inch post, 14 kg).FacebookThe Steadicam Group
  2. 2026Transvideo has ceased trading: what owners of their monitors need to knowOperator practice
  3. 2026Recommended upgrade priorities for a GPI Pro steadicam rigSteadi-Newbies
  4. 2026Betz Tools has changed hands to 2eyetec, and what that means for parts and serviceOperator practice
Read the original threadAsk about this threadThe answer cites the archive