Paul C. Buff, Inc. Technical Forum

I have two E640's that are both version II's and have the latest firmware. I purchased them roughly a year apart. There are a few physical differences between the two units I have noticed during use (newer unit has a vented panel behind the flash tube, quieter fan, etc). None have any noticeable effect on performance - until now.

The newer unit has become increasingly more difficult to tighten onto a stand. No matter now much the screw is tightened, there is always significant play between the mounting block and a 5/8 stud. The light feels wobbly even with small modifiers or umbrellas. After further inspection and comparison to the older light I have, the problem was evident. The mounting block on the older light has a metal sleeve where the light mounts to the stand, the block on the newer light is just thicker plastic with no sleeve.

Is it possible to purchase the mounting block with the metal sleeve? I'm not sure what version is sold in the hardware section of the online store.

Thanks much in advance,

Luke

+1

Ken Richmond

Currently, all mounts for Alien Bee and Einstein are all poly-carbonate with a brass threaded insert for the tightening knob. These should fit any stud that is 5/8 or smaller. If you are having issues, there may be something wrong with that particular mount.

Is it cracked?
When I got the all plastic mount, it was so tight that it didn't fit on my lightstands...

kenyee,

It's definitely not cracked. Since it sounds like you had an opposite issue, perhaps there's a deformity on mine. In any case, I'm not worried about the light falling of the stand. The sleeve isn't necessarily adding strength, just a more secure fit being metal on metal. For $10, I may just try a new mounting block.

Thanks for the info everyone.

Cheers,

Luke