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Mount problems--Need your help!!!

Started by mikerxer, 09/20/2003 04:29AM
Posted 09/20/2003 04:29AM Opening Post
I have a Celestron CI-700 mount (bought it last Christmas). It seems that,
even when I have the OTA balanced, the motors seem to be working hard to
slew. The worms are much easier to turn manually with the knobs (disengaged
from the motors) when the clutches are disengaged as compared to when the
clutches are tight and engaged with the shaft/bearings/dovetail/OTA.

Are there any web sites that detail how to adjust/tune-up the mount? Or,
does anyone have the info that they can post on this thread?

Also, it's a good thing I'm kind of "mechanical" because I have had to
tighten several of the hex (Allen wrench-type) tiny "lock bolts" that secure
the motors/knobs to their shafts. Has anyone had any experience with using
Lock-Tite compound on the screws/bolts on the mount when they loosen?

Are there any up-grades to the mount such as more "beefier" RA and DEC
clutches? It seems that, even when I have these clutches well tightened, it
is still possible to move the OTA if accidentally slightly pushed/bumped in
the dark, so to speak.

I am basically happy with the mount and, with it, I have enjoyed many
observing sessions.

What are your experiences with this mount?

I am currently saving up for a Losmandy Gemini GoTo add-on for the mount and
I am concerned that the Losmandy motors will struggle with the worms, so to
speak and that the clutches will hold tight.

-- Mike