I have a very sturdy Manfrotto monopod that I would like to convert for use as a Glidecam-type stabilizer by adding weights at the bottom.

The Manfrotto monopod came with a round screw-mount base at the top. It isn't very large, probably about 2 inches in diameter.

My question is: is it safe to mount my PD-150 directly to this round base when using as it as a homebuilt stabilizer? or do I need a larger 'platform' between the round screw-mount on the monopod and the PD-150?

You might want to attach something like a 357PL sliding plate adapter. that will allow you to quick connect to your homebuilt unit or a tripod and you can slide the camera along the length of the plate to the point of balance and then lock it. I use one on my monopod.

http://www.manfrotto.com/products/metric/botfot3.html?menu=botfot2.html&menu1=botfot2.html&sectionid=2&subsectionid=3&categoryid=12&subcategoryid=50&man_code=357PLV&company=MNO&doc_from=gerarchia&contatore=primo

I just wanted to make sure that little 2-inch diameter pad was going to provide enough support for the PD-150 while in motion.

The whole point of using a stabilizer is that the camera is moving while filming.

<<<-- Alex Knappenberger typed : Yeah, it was made for having a camera mounted to it, so why wouldn't it be good enough? -->>>

Thanks Bryan that looks awesome!

Where do you find something like that? B&H doesn't appear to carry them...

<<<-- Bryan Beasleigh typed : You might want to attach something like a 357PL sliding plate adapter. that will allow you to quick connect to your homebuilt unit or a tripod...