On Monday, April 27, 1998 4:20 AM, Heapy Chris CG wrote:

> >----------
> >Sent: 27 April 1998 09:11
> >To: 'MAPUG Mail'
> >Subject: [M]: LX-200 Dec Mods (Was: Guiding and the 216xt with final



> >... Reduced friction in roller bearings really makes the scope potentially
> >susceptible to damage, again quoting myself from the article: "Now, one dare
> >not
> >release the clutch without holding the optical tube or the front and rear
> >attachments
> >might become history".


> I thought about that problem when I first read of the DEC modification.
> It should be fairly easy to modify the clutch plate to incorporate a
> spring-loaded plate to maintain some degree of friction to prevent
> free-swinging, even when the clutch is released. I have not done the mod
> yet, and will not do so until my warranty expires. However, when it does
> expire this is what I'll be looking to do.
>
> Chris Heapy


To keep things simple, I have done the minimal necessary to accomplish
the task of increasing the Dec axis load rating and reducing friction. I believe
some adjustable and releasable Dec clutch preoading may be desirable
to allow accurate balancing while preventing accidental damage to the
tube or accessories. I considered using some of the rather viscous
silicone stop cock grease I used on my 5" baffle tube. I decided against
it because it would not allow almost complete release of all dec clutch friction
desired for accurate balancing. I would expect it to work much like a fluid
tripod head, except a lot stiffer due to the large surface area.

I will look forward to a less compromising solution from you, Chris



--
Michael Hart
Husen Observatory

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