Putting a Dob on a diet!Posted By Michael Koons |
My portly 16" f4.5 Nightsky is wonderful, but....after 2 years of ownership, my back is a bit sore, and I'd like to get the mirror box as light as I can. I am unable to use ramps because of the location, and my 152 pound frame struggles with the 69 pound mirror box. I'm really not interested in removing the mirror and transporting it. I just need to be lighter, and manage 4 steps and 45 feet a bit better. My first idea is to chop the bottom of the mirror box, cut the adjustment screws a commensurate amount and then move the altitude bearings accordingly. Any input as far as hole cutting, trimming the top, easily modifying the mirror cell to lighten it, anything. If this dob doesn't lose weight it will kill my back and mirror. Thanks
Mike
Mike