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11
Assemble Declination Axis
1. Do not have your telescope or counterweights
connected to the Dec. axis assembly for either
assembly or disassembly of the Dec. and RA axes.
2. Position the R.A. axis as shown in Diagram 7 with the
pocket "A" at the top, opposite the altitude adjuster
knob. Firmly tighten R.A. clutch knobs.
3. During shipment, the Dec. axis assembly lock knobs
will be fully screwed into the Dec. axis. For correct
assembly, these lock knobs should be unscrewed at
least 7 full turns and no more
then 8.5 full turns. This
is between 5/16" and 3/8" out from the "shipped"
tightened position.
Note: These lock knobs can be completely removed
from the Dec. axis assembly with about 9.5 full turns
out.
4. Position the Dec. axis above the R.A. axis as shown
in Diagram 8, a light movement (wiggle) in the
downward direction (arrow "A") will help to correctly
seat the principle dovetail(s) and parallel guides.
5. When both Dec. and R.A. assemblies are fully seated,
hand tighten both Dec. lock knobs.
6. Thread the counterweight shaft into the
Dec. axis.
7. Remove the hand knob and safety
washer from the base of the
counterweight shaft. Add sufficient
counterweights (10 or 18 lb.
counterweights are purchased
separately) to the declination shaft to
balance the telescope you intend to
use. Always use two hands to attach or
move them on the shaft.
8. Reattach the hand knob and safety
washer to the end of the declination
shaft. This will help to prevent injury if
someone accidentally loosens the
counterweight knob.
NOTE: Firm tightening of the
counterweight knob will not damage
the surface of the counterweight shaft.
The pin that tightens against the
stainless counterweight shaft is
constructed of brass. Likewise the
bronze sleeve that has been press fit
into the center of the counterweight will
prevent marring of the shaft as you
move the counterweight up and down.
Removing Declination Axis at the End of
your Observing Session
1. Unscrew the lock knobs 5.5 to 7 full turns (this is still 5/16" to 3/8" out from the fully tightened position) and
slide/tilt the Dec. axis assembly in an upwards direction (arrow "B").
2. For transport/storage we recommend fully tightening the lock knobs.
Diagram 7
Diagram 8