Focuser backlash...how much is acceptable?

I just purchased a new dual 10:1 micro-focuser micro pinion assembly for my TV 102 refractor from a well known and excellent brand [can I name the brand?], and it has a fair amount of backlash.

It represents maybe 25-30% of the micro-focuser 360 degree turn. Despite attempts to improve with installation adjustments, that is the best I can do.

Is that acceptable? I'm thinking I should just buy the TeleVue Focusmate, as my current "standard" TV focuser has zero, and I mean zero, backlash.

Any thoughts appreciated.

Thanks.

Hi Mark, sounds like you did not get the rack and pinion gap set correctly. If it is not set right, you will have backlash, if set correctly, it will have none.