Question:

One question re assembly - the Paraflex duo flex hinge uses the stainless securing "bar" with two short bolts at either end, salvaged from the components to wall mount the parasol, to secure the hinge to the main post. I've tried fitting the hinge and bar with the stainless steel "slip" that fit's over the bar but I cant push this into the main post by hand. The tolerance might allow fitting this with a tap from a mallet but before I please advise should I use the slip or remove it and tighten the lower bolt straight onto the post and the other bolt into the hole just below the plastic cap at the top of the post?

Answer:

The UK importers have advised the following "If you use the small metal clip with the lip facing down it does go onto the pole. However it is a very tight fit. I would carefully use a non metal hammer to help it down. If it were mine I would not use the thin metal strip." This is beyond my personal knowledge so let me know if it is sufficient advice or not.

Question:

Thanks Claire - so yes and no then :-) I personally think the slip should be used but it would take a mallet to force fit it so I've fixed without - then the only issue is that the bolts tighten onto the aluminium so score it - Paraflex need to make a new thinner slip.

Answer:

I'll pass your comments on - Paraflex are normally quite responsive to product improvement suggestions. Claire

Here is the initial response from the UK importers. Will keep you posted - Claire

"Hi Claire. The base has been in use with different systems for several years and has performed well. I can’t see a problem with it. I will forward this to Umbrosa for their comments."

Answer:

I have the answer from Umbrosa:

Take the stainless steel strip off. The strip is designed for the wall bracket so you can move it up and down (I don’t know anyone that actually moves the parasol height once it is set up). The Duo Hinge is not designed to move up and down you have nothing to worry about screwing directly into the pole.