The expander is a plastic part that sits on the screw thread inside each pole section. For standard poles, the large (18mm) expander is used for the upper joint, while the small (16mm) one is for the lower joint. In ultralite poles, the small (16mm) expander fits the upper joint, and the XS (14mm) one goes in the lower joint. There are two types: the old 'Classic' and the new 'Super Lock System'. The old - style expanders were used in all poles made up to around mid - 2003 and are still found in some budget poles. They are usually red. You can tell them apart from the new type by the four short (2mm) plastic prongs on one end of the larger two sizes. The new type expanders are currently black (Large 18mm) and blue (Small 16mm). Ultralite poles, made from smaller - diameter tubes, use blue (Small 16mm) expanders for the upper joint and green (XS 14mm) for the lower joint. These two types are not interchangeable, so always check the type in your poles before ordering replacements. The price is for a single item.
Using your Leki expander is easy. First, make sure you've identified the right type and size for your poles. For standard poles, place the large 18mm expander in the upper joint and the small 16mm one in the lower joint. For ultralite poles, use the small 16mm expander for the upper part and the XS 14mm one for the lower. When it comes to installation, simply screw the expander onto the thread inside the pole section. Remember, the old and new types of expanders are not compatible. So, before you order a spare, take a close look at the expander in your poles to ensure you get the right one. As for maintenance, keep your expanders clean. You can use a mild soap and water to wipe them down occasionally. Avoid using harsh chemicals as they might damage the plastic. Also, store your poles in a dry place to prevent the expanders from getting rusty or brittle. With these simple steps, your Leki expanders will last a long time and keep your poles in great shape.
