What the thread found

• Steadicam Merlin Start and Finish weights are each 1/8 pound while Mid weights are 1/4 pound each.
• Fine adjustments for Steadicam Merlin balance can be made by moving the gimbal underneath the top stage rather than solely relying on weight changes.
• The dovetail plate is a critical component where a makeshift solution risks camera damage from equipment failure, making the original part a worthwhile investment despite higher upfront cost.
• Merlin 2 dovetails provide stronger gripping performance than original Merlin dovetails, which may lose gripping effectiveness with heavy use.
• Fishing weights can be modified by tapping screw holes into them as a potential substitute for official counterweights.
• Used complete Steadicam Merlin units can be found for $120 to $250, which may cost less than purchasing all individual replacement parts separately.

Depends on

• The specific camera and lens weight mentioned was a Canon 60D with a 17-40mm lens, so weight requirements vary by setup.
• Used dovetail plates from secondhand Merlin units may have reduced gripping capability depending on prior use.
• Fishing weight modification is an untested approach by the original poster at time of discussion.

Parts

Dovetail Plate, Top Stage

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