[LargeFormat] re tripods

[philip.lambert]

I would be glad of some practical advice how to update an early tripod
unpacked this morning (ebay), whose legs each consist of a pair of oak laths
bracketed together, pivoted at the top beside the tripod bush and clamped at
the foot to retain the sliding lower legs.  At first I thought the latter
were made from straight beech but when I put my glasses on I found they were
made of rusting recycled Iron-age spears 5/8" diameter, 30" long and quite
nasty at one end but rubbery at the other.
The point on which advice is sought is whether I can replace this old iron
with wooden 5/8" dowel or ramin, lighter and longer than the originals.
This, if it works, would give me a higher tripod and lighter.  There is no
central column, just a jammed pan and tilt head easily replaced by one of my
Manfrotto doorstops.
If wood works for the lower leg, what do I make the bottom ferrule out of?
Should I use a brass round screw head or would a point make a better job?
If so, how would I contrive one?
Thank you for your support. Philip

Even Uncle Dick's  bush-dentist tips would be considered.........