What the thread found

• A Steadicam Flyer or Flyer LE can accommodate payloads ranging from under 1kg to approximately 9.5kg by using weighted plates to balance lighter cameras and carefully accounting for all components including batteries and accessories
• The stated weight limit for a Steadicam rig refers to total payload including batteries and monitor, not just the camera and top-stage equipment
• Two PowerCube batteries weigh approximately 1.5lbs each and provide 6000mAh capacity, while alternative batteries like Hytron 50s weigh more but provide significantly less capacity
• Steadicam arms can technically support payload beyond their specified weight limits, but doing so risks gimbal and stage failure, especially with repeated overloading
• To upgrade from a Pilot to a Flyer requires selling the Pilot and using funds as down payment, as the entire system including arms, vest, and sled differs between models
• Lighter accessories such as clip-on matte boxes help keep total payload within safe operating limits
• Individual Steadicam arms show variance in their maximum weight capacity, so testing a specific arm is necessary to determine its actual limits

Depends on

• The Flyer LE weight limit of 9.5kg assumes use of two PowerCube batteries and a standard monitor, so actual available payload varies with different battery models and configurations
• Some operators report successfully exceeding manufacturer weight limits, but this is anecdotal and not recommended practice
• Specific weight capacities for individual arms vary and must be tested rather than assumed

Parts

Top Stage

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