What happened to it? I've got an 18' and I've had it since November. Only problem so far, the top clamp doesn't grip anymore. Solution? - cut a slice of each of the cheeks of the clamp so it closes down further and grips.
When it starts slipping again I'll make up a steel collar to fit round the clamp with a steel cam on it - that will make the b****r grip.
The plus is that it's light - I use it on everything, no need for a short pole for ground floors.
Cheers,
Ian