The MAPUG site has much information about the Meade wedge and the mods
necessary to improve it. Being on a limited budget drove me to find ways to
achieve the result of the mods without having to go to the extremes of
machine shops and custom parts. As DOC suggests, nylon washers used in
judicious places will go a long way to improve the results. Replacing the
two elevation pivot bolts with 2 &1/2" shoulder bolts cuts the wear in this
area. I also cut about 6 inch long strips of negative ( old xray film is what
I used) from some old film, and after taking the wedge apart, wrapping these
strips around the two 1" tubular bars for the elevation adjustment (flush
with their ends) makes a world of difference in the wedges performance in
elevation. You can find a length that is just right to take the slop out of
these bars. Secure them with electrical tape, after reassembling the wedge.
I found some teflon (or UHMW) tape at a local plastic supplier, which has
replaced the nylon washers on my wedge now. I used it on the top of the
tripod, and the sides of the wedge elevation plate. Make sure you put a
small piece in the recess for the elevation rods too. My wedge now moves
very easily in both directions and reverses direction with less than a 1/4
turn on the knobs. Total cost for these mods was about $15, and results are
very satisfactory.

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