I have been reading David Kriege’s book “The Dobsonian Telescope”. In it he makes a pretty strong statement about the virtue of using silicon wax, Car Wax, to enhance the performance of Teflon pads used in a DOB. I am wondering if this is common practice today.
Silicon wax on Teflon pads
Started by frainiea, 02/16/2007 02:36AM
Posted 02/16/2007 02:36AM
Opening Post
Posted 02/16/2007 05:18AM
#1
Ed,
What on earth was Dave thinking? I tried it. The initial stick is quite strong, followed by the most surprising, slickest, quickest scoot imaginable. Just horrible for fine tracking motion. Stiction in principle is a necessity, else the smallest force would move the telescope slowly. But when things are right, stiction isn't noticeable, and takeoff seems gradual.
If you ever get in a bind and have to have easier motion in a quick and dirty way, I recommend a bit of bar soap. It doesn't last well, soon gets gummy, but will get you through a night. It is the only lubricant I have tried that doesn't stick.
Ron
What on earth was Dave thinking? I tried it. The initial stick is quite strong, followed by the most surprising, slickest, quickest scoot imaginable. Just horrible for fine tracking motion. Stiction in principle is a necessity, else the smallest force would move the telescope slowly. But when things are right, stiction isn't noticeable, and takeoff seems gradual.
If you ever get in a bind and have to have easier motion in a quick and dirty way, I recommend a bit of bar soap. It doesn't last well, soon gets gummy, but will get you through a night. It is the only lubricant I have tried that doesn't stick.
Ron
Posted 02/16/2007 07:59AM
#2
Ed, I tried this about a year ago and it made the most terrible and loudest sound that sounded unmistakably like a dog bellowing. My wife actually asked me why I was kicking a dog and we don't even own one. I ended up having to use sandpaper to get ot off my alt bearings. It was awful, I never tried it again. Regards, Darrell
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