Mount Advice

Hi everyone - I'm thingking of replacing an old EQ6 mount that is too shaky with a 35 to 40 lb load (TEC 140 with TV76 piggy back) with a Tak EM200 Temma2 mount. Do you think that will be steadier than the EQ6, or will I have to go to the NJP to get a marked improvement? I do only visual observation, but I like a steady mount.
Thanks, Steve

Hi Steve,

You'll be right at the Tak conservative limit with the load you mentioned with an EM200. It will work for visual just fine if you balance carefully. But, with such great equipment I bet it won't be long before you're into imaging. Then you'll need the NJP for sure.

Hope this helps,

Dan

A forty lb load on the EM200 and your going to be pushing it a bit, but I.m pretty sure the mount will handle it. I know of one person who uses a 10 inch AP mak on an AP600 goto and that tube assembly about 35 lbs I have one so I know.
With the tube assembly and its mount plates and accessories this will tip the scales to over 40 lbs and the 600 goto handles it just fine. You might want to consider the NJP and if your willing to wait there are NJP's that show up on Astro mart from time to time. Another alternative would be the Astro-Physics 900 goto but there is a waiting list unless you can scare one up on Astro-mart. Last there is the Losmandy G11 which is OK for Visual but if you get into imaging your going to have to upgrade the mount with new worms and mounting blocks for the worms. As far as trying to upgrade the EQ6 I would not bother not unless the upgrades cost less than a hundred bucks and less than 40 hours of sweat equity I would not bother you'll never get its money's worth out of it.

Clear Skies
Dwight L Bogan