I do visual observing only with a TEC 140 refractor on an old EQ6 mount with the Losmandy saddle plate and LXD55 GoTo conversion. I have become dissatisfied with the steadiness of the setup – especially with my TV 76 on top of the TEC 140. The total load is 35 to 40 lb depending on exactly how I set it up.
I am considering replacing the EQ6 with a Losmandy G11 with Gemini or a Tak EM200 Temma 2 with the mahogany legs. Steady, reliable, available and weight of the assembled mount are the primary concerns. The price difference is less important. I leave the mount all assembled, and my weight limit for carrying it without counter weights and OTA out of my storage building is about 70 lb. The EQ6 is 60 lb. I figure the G11 is about 70 lb, while the EM200 is probably closer to 50 lb. Does anyone familiar with these mounts have any advice? Can the EM200 carry 35 to 40 lb steadier than the EQ6 for visual? The Celestron CGE mount might also work, but I think that is too heavy for me. Thanks, Steve Dexter
I am considering replacing the EQ6 with a Losmandy G11 with Gemini or a Tak EM200 Temma 2 with the mahogany legs. Steady, reliable, available and weight of the assembled mount are the primary concerns. The price difference is less important. I leave the mount all assembled, and my weight limit for carrying it without counter weights and OTA out of my storage building is about 70 lb. The EQ6 is 60 lb. I figure the G11 is about 70 lb, while the EM200 is probably closer to 50 lb. Does anyone familiar with these mounts have any advice? Can the EM200 carry 35 to 40 lb steadier than the EQ6 for visual? The Celestron CGE mount might also work, but I think that is too heavy for me. Thanks, Steve Dexter