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Upgrading from GlideCam 4000 Pro to Steadicam Pilot sled with existing Merlin Arm and Vest

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

What the thread found

  • The Pilot sled offers quick trim controls and a movable gimbal mounting point that the GlideCam 4000 Pro lacks, allowing on-the-fly adjustments during operation.
  • No sled product exists between the GlideCam 4000 and Pilot in terms of price and features.
  • The Pilot provides advantages beyond gimbal and micro adjustments, including the ability to lengthen the post and inertial weight adjustments on the lower spar for dynamic balance.
  • Used Pilot sleds or the AA battery model can reduce the cost compared to the AB or IDX versions.
  • The Pilot sled connects to a Merlin Arm/Vest by replacing the angled arm post with a straight post that comes with the Pilot kit, accomplished by loosening an allen wrench lock without additional adapters.
  • The Pilot's pan bearing assembly matches that of the Ultra 2 but at a smaller diameter.
  • The Pilot offers tool-free stage and arm adjustments plus easily adjusted vest configuration.

Depends on

  • This discussion assumes the user already owns a Merlin Arm and Vest, so the advice is specific to that compatibility.
  • The conversation references model variations (AA, AB, IDX battery versions) without detailed comparison of their differences.
  • No specific pricing comparisons are provided between the different Pilot battery models or used market options.

Parts

Gimbal Bearing, Arm Post

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