Overview
The SitePro FGHD30ELAZ-DCB tall elevator tripod delivers extended working height without compromising stability on uneven terrain. Purpose-built for surveyors and grading crews, this 12-foot composite model reduces the need for scaffolding or elevated platforms when setting up laser levels, theodolites, and total stations at challenging jobsites. Its integrated elevator mechanism provides 30 inches of rapid vertical adjustment, allowing operators to achieve precise instrument heights without repositioning the tripod legs—a critical advantage when working on slopes, over obstacles, or in congested construction zones.
Constructed with fiberglass-reinforced composite leg assemblies, this tripod weighs just 14.2 pounds while supporting instruments up to 22 pounds. The material composition resists thermal expansion and contraction better than aluminum alternatives, maintaining measurement accuracy across temperature swings from -20°F to 140°F. Dual-clamp leg locks provide secure positioning at any extension point, while the oversized aluminum head plate accommodates 5/8" x 11 thread instruments with exceptional rigidity. Orange powder-coated hardware ensures high jobsite visibility and corrosion resistance in wet or coastal environments.
The elevator column features a smooth dual-crank system with a precision gear ratio that prevents instrument drift during vertical adjustments. Replaceable stainless steel foot spikes penetrate asphalt, compacted soil, and frozen ground, while included rubber foot pads enable stable setup on finished concrete or interior floors. This versatility makes the FGHD30ELAZ-DCB equally effective for boundary surveys, building layout, drainage projects, and foundation inspections where traditional tripods fall short.
Key Specifications
- Maximum Height: 12 feet (144 inches) fully extended
- Minimum Height: 5 feet 4 inches (64 inches) collapsed
- Elevator Adjustment Range: 30 inches with dual-crank mechanism
- Head Plate Thread: 5/8" x 11 TPI with centering screw
- Load Capacity: 22 pounds maximum instrument weight
- Leg Material: Fiberglass-reinforced composite with oval profile
- Leg Locks: Dual-action quick-release clamps (4 per leg)
- Tripod Weight: 14.2 pounds (6.4 kg)
- Foot Hardware: Replaceable stainless steel spikes with threaded rubber pads
- Head Plate Diameter: 6.3 inches with non-slip textured surface
- Operating Temperature: -20°F to 140°F (-29°C to 60°C)
- Carrying Strap: Padded adjustable shoulder strap included
- Finish: Orange powder-coated hardware for visibility and corrosion resistance
What's in the Kit
- SitePro FGHD30ELAZ-DCB 12-foot composite elevator tripod
- Stainless steel foot spikes (3 installed)
- Threaded rubber foot pads (3 pieces)
- Dual-crank elevator handle
- Padded shoulder carrying strap
- Head plate centering screw
- Hex key tool set for hardware adjustment
- Product documentation and care guide
Job Applications
- Foundation and Footing Layout: Extended height positions laser levels above foundation forms and rebar congestion, providing clear laser lines across the entire work area without moving the tripod between elevation checks. The elevator adjustment compensates for foundation depth variations without leg repositioning.
- Grading and Drainage Projects: When establishing finish grades on sloped sites, the 12-foot height clears stockpiled materials and equipment while maintaining line-of-sight to grade stakes. The composite legs won't conduct electricity near overhead utilities, improving safety during storm drainage surveys.
- Bridge and Overpass Inspections: Reach elevated structural elements, bearing assemblies, and expansion joints without renting lifts. The lightweight design allows single-person transport across inspection platforms and scaffolding where heavier tripods require two-person handling.
- Commercial Building Construction: Set control points above finished floor elevations for wall layout and MEP coordination. The 30-inch elevator range accommodates ceiling height variations in multi-story buildings, while rubber foot pads protect polished concrete and terrazzo floors from metal spike damage.
- Boundary and Topographic Surveys: Clear sightlines over tall vegetation, fence lines, and ground-level obstructions that typically block traditional tripod setups. The thermal stability of composite legs maintains accuracy during long observation sessions in direct sunlight or shifting weather conditions.
- Cell Tower and Utility Pole Surveys: Position total stations at heights that reduce vertical angle measurements when shooting elevated targets. The extended setup reduces angular error accumulation and improves vertical precision when establishing tower plumbness or documenting utility infrastructure.
Compatible Accessories
- SitePro 27-LRD300 rotary laser detector with magnetic mount
- SECO 5200-series tribrach adapters (5/8" x 11 thread)
- SitePro heavy-duty instrument cases with tripod pocket (models up to 15" width)
- Replacement foot spike sets (part #FGHD-SPIKE-3PK)
- Instrument-mounted circular level vials for head plate leveling
- Nylon tripod leg wraps for vehicle transport protection
- SitePro plumb bob assemblies with magnetic damping (5/8" x 11 thread)
Related Guides
- Tripod Setup Best Practices for Surveying Accuracy
- Choosing the Right Laser Level Height for Your Project
- Composite vs. Aluminum Tripods: Material Comparison Guide
- Elevator Tripod Maintenance and Troubleshooting
FAQ
- Can this tripod support robotic total stations with integrated batteries?
- Yes, the 22-pound load capacity accommodates most robotic total stations including battery packs and mounted accessories. The wide head plate and dual-crank elevator provide stable positioning even with top-heavy instrument configurations. Always verify your specific instrument weight including all attachments stays within the 22-pound limit.
- How does the composite material perform in extreme temperature conditions?
- Fiberglass-reinforced composite expands and contracts approximately 80% less than aluminum across temperature changes, maintaining consistent leg length and reducing measurement errors caused by thermal distortion. In direct sunlight, composite legs remain cooler to handle than metal alternatives, while in freezing conditions they won't conduct cold or become brittle like some plastics.
- What's the advantage of the 30-inch elevator range compared to standard tripods?
- The elevator mechanism allows rapid vertical adjustment without loosening leg locks or changing the tripod footprint—critical when you've carefully leveled the head plate over a control point. This saves 5-10 minutes per setup on uneven terrain and prevents accidental point displacement. The smooth dual-crank system also enables precise height matching when coordinating with existing benchmarks or instrument networks.
- Will the rubber foot pads stay attached during transport and setup?
- The threaded rubber pads screw securely onto the steel spike shafts and won't fall off during normal handling. For transport, leave the pads installed to protect vehicle interiors and equipment cases. When transitioning from hard surfaces to soft ground, the pads unscrew in seconds—keep them in your equipment vest or case pocket so they're available when returning to finished surfaces.
