Removing stuck beam elements
There are numerous methods for removing "frozen" telescoping beam elements and they range from the application of a blowtorch to the brute-force method of gas pliers. The following way was found most effective: Firmly clamp the end of the frozen member with a pair of vise-grip pliers as shown in Fig. 1. Using a hammer, tap the end of a chisel until the joint comes loose.
Fig. 1. KH61J's method of removing stuck beam elements.
To prevent future freezing of telescoped elements, I coat the joint with grease and bind up with plastic tape.
Katashi Nose, KH6IJ.