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Counterweights for an ap900

Started by RobertHowe, 09/08/2013 01:49PM
Posted 09/08/2013 01:49PM | Edited 09/10/2013 11:23AM Opening Post
My AP900 mount easily carries 75 lbs of refractors in a permanent observatory. Yesterday I replaced the counterweight shaft, 27 inches with 81 lbs of wts (shown in photo), with a 14 inch shaft bearing 106 lbs. The balance is perfect, the motor runs quietly and there is a LOT more room in a crowded bldg. I presume that the shorter shaft will be less prone to jarring and vibration thus giving a steadier image. I wonder, is there a down side I am not seeing?

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Robert Howe
Wilbraham MA


TeleVue 85 f/7 // Astro-Physics Traveler 105 f/6 // Astro-Physics 130 f/8.35
Coronado 60 DS
"Scopes, Brains and Wisdom--but no Beauty"