Manfrotto 055 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod with XPRO Magnesium Ball Head and MSQ6PL Quick Release Plate

Introduction

This manual provides instructions for the safe and effective use of your Manfrotto 055 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod, equipped with the XPRO Magnesium Ball Head and MSQ6PL Quick Release Plate. The 055 carbon fiber tripod offers high rigidity and a lightweight design, featuring a 90° column for versatile shooting. Its 100% carbon fiber tubes and Quick Power Lock leg-locks ensure stability. The XPRO Ball Head is designed for portability, supporting payloads up to 10kg with its triple locking system, three wedges, and dual leveling bubbles.

Safety Information

• Weight Limit: Do not exceed the maximum payload capacity of 44 pounds (20 kg) for the tripod and 10 kg for the ball head. Overloading can cause instability and damage.
• Stability: Always ensure all leg sections and leg angle selectors are fully locked before mounting equipment. Use the tripod on a stable, level surface.
• Moving Parts: Be cautious when extending or collapsing legs and adjusting the center column to avoid pinching fingers.
• Environmental Conditions: Avoid using the tripod in extreme weather conditions (e.g., strong winds, heavy rain) without proper precautions. Carbon fiber is durable but can be damaged by severe impacts.
• Maintenance: Regularly inspect all components for wear, damage, or loose parts. Do not use if any part is compromised.

Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in the package:

• Manfrotto 055 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod
• Manfrotto XPRO Magnesium Ball Head
• Manfrotto MSQ6PL Quick Release Plate
• User Manual (this document)

Setup

Image: Manfrotto 055 Carbon Fiber Tripod with XPRO Ball Head and MSQ6PL Quick Release Plate assembled.

1. Unpacking: Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Retain packaging for future storage or transport.
2. Attaching the Ball Head:
   • Locate the mounting screw on the top plate of the tripod's center column.
   • Align the base of the XPRO Ball Head with the mounting screw.
   • Rotate the ball head clockwise until it is securely tightened onto the tripod. Ensure it is firm but do not overtighten.
3. Mounting the Quick Release Plate to Camera:
   • Locate the 1/4" or 3/8" screw on the MSQ6PL Quick Release Plate.
   • Align the screw with the tripod mount thread on the bottom of your camera.
   • Tighten the screw securely using a coin or the integrated D-ring (if available) until the plate is firmly attached to the camera body.
4. Attaching Camera to Tripod:
   • Ensure the quick release clamp on the XPRO Ball Head is open.
   • Slide the camera with the attached MSQ6PL plate into the quick release clamp.
   • Close the quick release clamp firmly until it locks into place. Verify that the camera is securely mounted by gently attempting to lift it.
5. Adjusting Leg Angles and Height:
   • Leg Angles: Each leg has an angle selector. Press the selector to adjust the leg to one of the available angles (23°, 50°, 70°). Ensure all three legs are set to the same angle for maximum stability.
   • Leg Height: The Quick Power Lock (QPL) levers allow for rapid and secure leg extension. Flip open the QPL levers, extend the leg sections to the desired height, and then firmly close the levers to lock them in place.
6. Using the 90° Column:
   • To convert the center column to horizontal orientation, fully extend the center column.
   • Press the column release button located at the base of the center column.
   • Pull the column upwards until it clears the tripod chassis.
   • Rotate the column 90° to the desired horizontal position.
   • Lower the column back into the chassis until it locks securely.

Operating

1. Adjusting Ball Head Tension:
   • The XPRO Ball Head features a main locking knob to control the ball's movement. Turn it counter-clockwise to loosen and allow movement, and clockwise to tighten and lock the ball.
   • A separate friction control knob allows you to set the desired resistance for the ball movement, preventing sudden drops of heavy equipment when the main knob is loosened. Adjust this to match your camera's weight.
2. Panning and Tilting:
   • The XPRO Ball Head allows for 360° panning. Loosen the dedicated panning lock knob (usually located at the base of the ball head) to rotate the camera horizontally. Tighten to lock.
   • Tilting is controlled by the main ball locking knob. Loosen it to adjust the camera's vertical angle and then tighten to secure.
3. Using the Quick Release Plate:
   • To quickly remove your camera, open the quick release clamp lever on the ball head and slide the camera (with plate) out.
   • To re-attach, slide the camera with the MSQ6PL plate back into the clamp and close the lever until it locks.
4. Folding and Transporting:
   • Ensure the center column is fully retracted and locked in the vertical position.
   • Collapse all leg sections by opening the QPL levers, retracting the sections, and closing the levers.
   • Fold the legs upwards towards the center column for compact storage.

Maintenance

• Cleaning:
  • Wipe carbon fiber legs and metal parts with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
  • For sand or dirt, extend all leg sections and clean thoroughly to prevent grit from damaging the locking mechanisms.
  • Clean the quick release plate and clamp regularly to ensure smooth operation.
• Storage: Store the tripod in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Use a tripod bag for protection during transport and storage.
• Inspecting Components: Periodically check all screws, levers, and joints for tightness. Ensure leg locks engage securely and the ball head operates smoothly. Do not attempt to lubricate internal mechanisms unless specifically instructed by the manufacturer.

Troubleshooting

• Tripod Instability:
  • Ensure all Quick Power Lock (QPL) levers are fully closed and locked.
  • Verify that all leg angle selectors are engaged at the same setting.
  • Check the ground surface for unevenness.
• Ball Head Not Holding Position:
  • Ensure the main locking knob is fully tightened.
  • Adjust the friction control knob to increase resistance, especially with heavier cameras.
  • Verify that your equipment's weight does not exceed the ball head's 10kg (22 lbs) capacity.
• Quick Release Plate Sticking/Not Engaging:
  • Ensure the quick release clamp lever is fully open before inserting the plate.
  • Check for any debris or dirt in the clamp mechanism or on the plate. Clean if necessary.
  • Verify the plate is correctly aligned with the clamp's grooves.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Manfrotto products are designed for durability and performance. For specific warranty details, including coverage periods and terms, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Manfrotto website. For technical support, spare parts, or service inquiries, please contact Manfrotto customer service through their official website or authorized service centers.

Official Manfrotto Website: www.manfrotto.com