replacement focuser

Can anyone recommend a good focuser to replace the one that comes with the Orion XT8? I don't want something extravagant, like a Feathertouch. Heck, that would cost as much or more than the scope did new. I want something that doesn't cost a great deal, but performs better than the stock focuser--soemthing that doesn't have so much slop, has better eyepiece fit, and better control movement.

I bought this scope from a co-worker this week, and I'll probably give it to my nephew.

Rex Cox said:

Can anyone recommend a good focuser to replace the one that comes with the Orion XT8? I don't want something extravagant, like a Feathertouch. Heck, that would cost as much or more than the scope did new. I want something that doesn't cost a great deal, but performs better than the stock focuser--soemthing that doesn't have so much slop, has better eyepiece fit, and better control movement.

I bought this scope from a co-worker this week, and I'll probably give it to my nephew.

A decent and inexpensive option is the RCF focuser from JMI. You can even buy it as a kit. There's one on my daughter, Elizabeth's, Parks 6-inch f/8 and it has always worked quite well considering the reasonable price.

8)

I want something that doesn't cost a great deal, but performs better than the stock focuser--soemthing that doesn't have so much slop, has better eyepiece fit, and better control movement.

I seems like your scope probably has the 2 inch Orion Rack and Pinion focuser. A year or so ago, Orion started putting Crayfords on their Newtonians, it's a varient of the ED-80/ED100 focuser and quite decent. It is also quite likely that it is a direct bolt up.

http://www.telescope.com/control/product/~category_id=focusers/~pcategory=accessories/~product_id=13039

Right now it's on special for $49. It is shorter than the stock focuser, at least some stock focusers, Orion sells an extension for I think $10 to take care of that problem.

I have two of them, they are actually quite nice. I made a couple of pinch-type fine focus levers that give added control.

http://tinyurl.com/2pv4y4

Jon

The Wyorock focuser is quite nice at about $125. This one is for a refractor, but they also come with a Dob base.

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