Installing a new mirror

I am finally ready to install my 16" mirror into its new mirror box. I built it right along the lines of Krieg/Barry dob book. Is it better/safer to install the mirror into the cell and then put that assembly into the mirror box? Or is it better to install the cell into the box and then insert the mirror? does it matter? I'd really appreciate some input from those with some experience doing this.

I would install the cell in the box and then the mirror in the cell.

Good luck Dave

I feel a little exposed being the contrarian here... but based on my recently completed 16" truss Dob, I feel best installing the mirror in the cell, adjusting the sling, and then CAREFULLY lowering the box down around it before attaching the two assemblies. This way the mirror is only moved a few inches from the storage crate to the cell and only a few inches off the ground before it is surrounded by the supporting cell. This way I see less chance of dropping the mirror, dripping nervous sweat on it, exposure to errant spittle as you curse the lack of finger room, chipping the back edge on the retaining clip top-nuts, or being startled at an inopportune time by your cell phone going off in vibrate mode. 8O

Naturally, all this is done after the construction is complete. I agree that you don't want to risk dropping anything on the mirror, and the mirror is HEAVY, so it is easier moving parts around without the mirror until all is assembled.

I currently have my box and mirror/cell separated so that I can work on blackening the inside of the box, add a mirror face fan, and add a beautiful dark wenge veneer to the top of the box. I just set the box on a rug, supported by the collimation knobs, and removed the bolts holding the cell to the box and lifted the box off. The mirror is safe in it's cell and covered with a piece of cardboard...just in case.