The Problem. The claspes that hold the tripod legs still and allows you to adjust their length are often weak on the cheaper tripods. They often crack and break making it impossible for the tripod leg to extend and hold.

   The Solution. In order to fix the problem you must find something that will hold the claspe together. A hose clamp works best. You can find these at your nearest hardware store. Adjust the leg to the desired length, then simply fit the loose hose clamp around the broken claspe and tighten it with a screwdriver until the leg holds its length.