If buying a used P3P, is there any way to be sure the shell has not been opened?

Im not sure, but I think it  is not possible.

Nothing is 100%.

Is the Gold tape on the forward arms intact and not cut or peeling? If it includes the colored tape strips and the GOLD strip on the arms are intact, then you've got a good chance of purchasing either a factory repaired unit or one that hasn't been opened.

Because of the locking tabs it is almost impossible for someone other than the OM to open it without leaving some indication on the shell. As the last poster pointed out, look closely at the shell where the halves meet for tool marks. Also, anyone can purchase and apply a new set of stickers.

For those of us who need to open for repairs, it would be nice to see photos of these locking tabs to know where to, and how to open them without defacing or destroying their strength.

ag0n Posted at 2015-10-14 22:44
For those of us who need to open for repairs, it would be nice to see photos of these locking tabs t ...

Check out this video:

Is there supposed to be four of the pins holding the gimbal on? Mine only came with two

Phantom Help Posted at 2015-10-14 22:16
Check out this video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzxTZv-DuKI

Thank you.  Saved the link.  Waiting for parts.

ceaton76 Posted at 2015-10-14 22:38
Is there supposed to be four of the pins holding the gimbal on? Mine only came with two

Two came on it, and two came as spares.  You should only have TWO in use at a time, on diagonal corners.  

ceaton76 Posted at 2015-10-14 23:38
Is there supposed to be four of the pins holding the gimbal on? Mine only came with two

Np. You only need two and there are two extra that come in a bag.

The two that are on there should be loose fitting and are only needed for an emergency to keep the gimbal from dropping off.

The four rubber pieces are actually holding the gimbal on and eliminating camera vibration, but they aren't super strong and would totally fail in a crash. The two pins are the backup.

Ok thanks guys. That what I thought but I just want to make sure.

silverxrider.me Posted at 2015-10-14 17:11
Because of the locking tabs it is almost impossible for someone other than the OM to open it without ...

Obviously, you can also purchase a new body!

Art Burke - N4PJ
Leesburg, FL

ag0n Posted at 2015-10-14 22:44
For those of us who need to open for repairs, it would be nice to see photos of these locking tabs t ...

This was posted in another thread but should answer your question.

There are three each on the front, back, and the sides of the shell.

Thank you both.  Exactly what I needed.  I just need to get inside to replace the gimbal cable.  One end ripped out of the connector when it detached.

gil Posted at 2015-10-15 06:52
This was posted in another thread but should answer your question.

Thank you.  Gil, that appears to be the gimbal cable on the right side.  Do you know if that is correct?

gregg1r Posted at 2015-10-14 12:05
Nothing is 100%.

Is the Gold tape on the forward arms intact and not cut or peeling? If it includes ...

Good reply.

ag0n Posted at 2015-10-15 10:22
Thank you.  Gil, that appears to be the gimbal cable on the right side.  Do you know if that is co ...

You mean the one labeled "gimbal"? (click on the photo and zoom in)

Didn't zoom that far I guess!