Hey all,
Thought I would share a solution to the infamous problem of the straps on the old Meade Starfinders. Admittedly, I have not had the privilege of using nice rings, but this solution has worked well for me.
The stainless ring in the picture is tightened securely around the tube. The black Meade straps are reasonably secure, but loose enough to allow rotation of the tube with 2 hands to get the eyepiece and focuser into place. The tube is prohibited from slipping back out of its balance point simply by the presence of the stainless ring. Also, the head of the bolt is welded to the tab, so that it will not slip or fall out.
Just moved up to an 8" OTA. I've asked my engineer/machine shop friend to fabricate another ring. I'm thinking about asking him to weld a couple of knurled thumb nuts to the side that could be used either to screw in bearings in case I want to use the OTA on a dob base.
Thought I would share a solution to the infamous problem of the straps on the old Meade Starfinders. Admittedly, I have not had the privilege of using nice rings, but this solution has worked well for me.
The stainless ring in the picture is tightened securely around the tube. The black Meade straps are reasonably secure, but loose enough to allow rotation of the tube with 2 hands to get the eyepiece and focuser into place. The tube is prohibited from slipping back out of its balance point simply by the presence of the stainless ring. Also, the head of the bolt is welded to the tab, so that it will not slip or fall out.
Just moved up to an 8" OTA. I've asked my engineer/machine shop friend to fabricate another ring. I'm thinking about asking him to weld a couple of knurled thumb nuts to the side that could be used either to screw in bearings in case I want to use the OTA on a dob base.
Attached Image:
