Modifying an Ikelite housing?

[czervos]

This may be a silly question, but I'm looking for a housing for a video camera that I've had for a while. Ikelite used to make one, but it's been discontinued. I've looked all over the place (ebay, forums, dealers...) and haven't had any luck finding the housing I'm looking for. I have come across similar housings and wondered if anybody has every had an experience modifying a housing? From what I can tell, most are constructed the same with the exception being for the controls. How difficult is it to extend or "bend" internal rods to match up with the controls on my camera?

This may be a stretch, but any info would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Chris

 

[diversteve]

Someone here once tried that - if I can find the link I'll post it here.

Ikelite sells replacement straight control rods if you want new ones to try to bend. One of them has a thinner end and is called "machined to bend" Camera Control Parts

Does it have to be Ikelite? Equinox sells a universal model, worst case you send them the camera and they fit it around it. If it's an old Sony with a LANC port, there are other options also. What camera are you trying to house?

 

[Hallmac]

How difficult is it to extend or "bend" internal rods to match up with the controls on my camera?

Making or bending rods are not that difficult. Building a custom housing is not that hard. Do not place any force upon a rod while it is in the housing or seal. Take your time and you'll be fine.

By the way, a trip to the local auto salvage center is a really cool place to find materials for your rods, Check the internal door latches and locks of different manufactures and you will find one to be just the right size depending upon which seal you happen to have.

 

[robint]

This may be a silly question, but I'm looking for a housing for a video camera that I've had for a while. Ikelite used to make one, but it's been discontinued. I've looked all over the place (ebay, forums, dealers...) and haven't had any luck finding the housing I'm looking for. I have come across similar housings and wondered if anybody has every had an experience modifying a housing? From what I can tell, most are constructed the same with the exception being for the controls. How difficult is it to extend or "bend" internal rods to match up with the controls on my camera?

This may be a stretch, but any info would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Chris

which camcorder do you have?
which housing are you looking for?

 

[czervos]

Thanks for the info on the Ikelite parts. That creates some options. Yes, my Sony camera has a Lanc port. I have a Sony TRV-22 so I was originally looking for the Ikelite #6038.07. However, I've found that a lot of the 6035 series is much alike.

 

[diversteve]

I just happened to see this the other day - A used Ocean Images Dolphin Pro for $500. Check with O/I but it should work with your camera and a lot of others. I think I even know someone that has an HDV camera in one should you get hooked on video and want to upgrade later.

 

[robint]

Thanks for the info on the Ikelite parts. That creates some options. Yes, my Sony camera has a Lanc port. I have a Sony TRV-22 so I was originally looking for the Ikelite #6038.07. However, I've found that a lot of the 6035 series is much alike.

Wow, that camcorder is pretty old, with current prices you might want to consider an upgrade before you invest in the housing. Just my 2 cents.

robin

 

[crpntr133]

I have a Dolphin Pro and like it a lot. I think that sjspeck is correct in saying that a HD will work in it. If you go with one and want the back video monitor let me know, I can save you a ton of money if you are willing to do a simple DIY.
Personally I wouldn't invest a lot of money in this project until you know that you are going to shoot a lot of video.