Fellow LX200 Users,

While observing this evening, I inadvertently turned (only slightly) the dec manual slow-motion knob while the scope was powered on (and the dec lock was engaged). (Was not looking at the knob I grabbed - going on feel only :(

The manual states that serious damage can occur to the internal gears of the motor assembly if the know is turned even a slight amount.

This being a relatively new scope, and only the second time I have used the drives - I do not have a good reference point for assessing what is normal or abnormal re: the dec drive.

The dec drive sound 'seems' to be more of a whirring / louder noise than what I recall from the only other time I used the drives - but that may just be the result of thinking I may have damaged something.

Any suggestions as to what (if anything) I should look for that would indicate component damage?

Using the scope in Alt/Az and aligned using the single star, known site method, although without the benefit of a reticle eyepiece, I note the pointing accuracy is off quote a bit - but that may be a result of other factors.

When using a 20 mm EP and the GOTO feature to slew from Fomalhaut to Mars, I would have thought that Mars would have at least been visible in the eyepiece without manual adjustments.

Is this normal performance?

I will try the Hi-Precision pointing feature once I get the reticle EP and see if there is any improvement. Any recommendations for a reticle EP?

Thanks in advance for your comments. The information I have picked up from the group has been invaluable - especially to a new user.

Best,

Doug

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