Ned,
I have the same issues with these twist poles and my camp tarp... twist lock mechanisms seem to only last for a while because in tough conditions when you turn them hard to stop the pole creeping down it breaks the mechanism.
The easiest solution I came up with was to carry a big role of PVC gaf tape. I set the poles up first with moderate twisting pressure, then a quick loop of gaf tape around the lower and upper pole at the join when I'm all happy and they never move. My wifes the first to always say "have we got the tape in the peg bag" !!
Thanks for the tip, I usually have some gaffa tape on hand for canoe repair but does it stay sticky & attract dirt? I'll give it a go, if unsuccessful I'll break out the cordless drill , cheers
