Benro GH2 Aluminum 2 Series Gimbal Head Instruction Manual

Introduction

The Benro GH2 Gimbal Head is a specialized tripod head designed to provide comfort, stability, and smooth control for photographers using heavier zoom lenses. It allows for precise rotation of your lens around its center of gravity, facilitating easy manipulation of large lenses up to 600mm. This design is particularly beneficial for sports and wildlife photography, where maneuverability and speed are crucial for capturing unpredictable moments.

Product Components

The Benro GH2 Gimbal Head includes the following main components:

• Gimbal Head Body (main frame)
• Quick Release (QR) Plate (PL100)
• Pan Lock Knob
• Tilt Lock Knob
• Vertical Arm Adjustment Knob
• Quick Release Clamp Knob

Refer to the images below for visual identification of these components.

Image: The Benro GH2 Gimbal Head, showcasing its primary structure and adjustment knobs. This is the main product view.

Image: A close-up view of the pan lock knob, located at the base of the gimbal head, used to control horizontal rotation.

Image: A detailed view of the tilt lock knob, positioned on the vertical arm, which secures the camera's vertical movement.

Image: The vertical arm of the gimbal head with an adjustment scale, allowing for precise height positioning of the quick release clamp.

Image: The quick release clamp mechanism, designed for secure and rapid attachment or detachment of the camera and lens assembly.

Image: The base of the Benro GH2 Gimbal Head, featuring degree markings for panoramic adjustments.

Setup

1. Mounting the Gimbal Head to a Tripod

1. Ensure your tripod is stable and capable of supporting the weight of the gimbal head, camera, and lens.
2. Locate the mounting screw on your tripod's head platform.
3. Align the base of the Benro GH2 Gimbal Head with the tripod's mounting screw.
4. Rotate the gimbal head clockwise onto the tripod screw until it is securely fastened. Do not overtighten.

2. Attaching the Quick Release Plate to your Lens

The Benro GH2 is compatible with Arca-Swiss style quick release plates. It comes with a PL100 QR plate.

1. Attach the provided PL100 quick release plate to the tripod collar foot of your camera lens. Use the appropriate screw (usually 1/4"-20 or 3/8"-16) to secure it firmly.
2. Ensure the plate is aligned straight and tightened to prevent rotation.

3. Mounting the Camera/Lens Assembly to the Gimbal Head

1. Loosen the Quick Release Clamp Knob on the gimbal head.
2. Slide the quick release plate (with your camera and lens attached) into the clamp.
3. Tighten the Quick Release Clamp Knob until the plate is securely held. The newly designed safety lock ensures security.

4. Balancing the Camera and Lens

Proper balancing is crucial for smooth operation and to prevent strain on the gimbal head and your equipment.

1. Loosen the Tilt Lock Knob and the Vertical Arm Adjustment Knob.
2. Adjust the vertical position of the quick release clamp along the vertical arm until the camera and lens are balanced front-to-back. The lens should remain horizontal when released.
3. Adjust the position of the quick release plate within the clamp (sliding it forward or backward) until the camera and lens are balanced side-to-side. The lens should not tilt up or down when released.
4. Once balanced, tighten the Tilt Lock Knob and the Vertical Arm Adjustment Knob. The camera and lens should now move freely with minimal effort but stay in position when released.

Operating Instructions

Panning (Horizontal Movement)

The pan lock knob controls the horizontal rotation of the gimbal head.

• To allow free horizontal movement, loosen the Pan Lock Knob.
• To lock the gimbal head in a specific horizontal position, tighten the Pan Lock Knob.

Tilting (Vertical Movement)

The tilt lock knob controls the vertical movement of the camera and lens.

• To allow free vertical movement, loosen the Tilt Lock Knob.
• To lock the camera and lens in a specific vertical angle, tighten the Tilt Lock Knob.

Smooth Operation

With proper balancing, the gimbal head should allow for fluid, effortless movement of your camera and lens, enabling you to track subjects smoothly.

Maintenance

• Keep the gimbal head clean from dust, dirt, and moisture. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, which can damage the finish.
• Periodically check all knobs and screws to ensure they are securely tightened.
• Store the gimbal head in a protective bag (such as the included blue Benro bag) when not in use to prevent scratches and accumulation of dust.

Image: The blue protective bag with the Benro logo, suitable for storing and transporting the gimbal head.

Troubleshooting

Movement feels stiff or not smooth

• Ensure all locking knobs (pan and tilt) are sufficiently loosened for free movement.
• Verify that the camera and lens assembly is correctly balanced. Improper balance can lead to perceived stiffness.
• Check for any obstructions or debris in the moving parts.

Camera/Lens does not stay in position when released

• Re-check the balance of your camera and lens. It must be neutrally balanced for the gimbal to hold its position when unlocked.
• Ensure the Tilt Lock Knob is tightened if you intend for the camera to remain fixed at a specific vertical angle.

Quick Release Plate feels loose or wobbly

• Ensure the Quick Release Clamp Knob is fully tightened.
• Verify that the quick release plate is securely attached to your lens's tripod collar foot.
• Confirm that the quick release plate is fully seated within the clamp.

Specifications

Warranty Information

The Benro GH2 Gimbal Head comes with a Limited 3-Year Warranty. This warranty can be extended to 5-Years with online registration. Please refer to the official Benro website for details on warranty registration and terms.

Support

For further assistance, technical support, or information regarding your Benro GH2 Gimbal Head, please visit the official Benro website or contact their customer service department. Keep your purchase receipt and product model number (GH2) handy for any inquiries.