Agree with Rick on just about all points here. It is hard to troubleshoot an issue like this over the net but would have to think Rick is on the money.
One thing i agree with and also an issue i would say 90 % of people on this forum would agree with is buy a good, tripod to start with. It seems like a lot of money up front but it will be with you for a lifetime. I for one am one that bought a "cheap" one to start off with and was a complete waste of money.......

Simon.