130 replacement focuser

[marshy123]

Hi all

I really want to upgrade the focuser on my Skywatcher 130M but can't find any 130-ready focusers. The smallest seem to be for 150mm tubes. If I stick to 1.25" would one for a 150 fit perhaps with a gasket to allow for the different diameter/curve?

[marshy123]

Hmm. I notice a lack of replies! Perhaps I need to re-phrase my question.

Theoretically, could I use a 150mm focuser on a 130mm tube with a home made gasket/fitting/adaptor of some sort?

[Stargazer Jack]

You cannot buy a focuser just for the 130. I am not sure whether a 150 focuser would fit.

[marshy123]

Thanks for the reply. Yeah, I guess at this price point they figure nobody would want to upgrade just the focuser, bit like putting a really nice steering wheel on a Morris Marina. Just wondered if anyone had ever done a similar thing. The focuser on my 130M is awful and I can't afford to upgrade my scope but could just about scrape together enough for a slightly better focuser. Might go for it and be the one who discovers whether or not it can be done!

[Stephen]

As far as I'm aware, there isn't a straight replacement on a 130. You will need to do some DIY to fit it

[tich]

I'm not sure what the 130M focuser looks like but if its like a 200P then maybe one of these might do?

Lacerta 1:10 micro transmission for Skywatcher Crayford focusers

I brought mine from here ;

Dual Speed 1:10 Microfocus Upgrade for Skywatcher Crayford [Lac-Micfoc-s] - 56.00 : 365Astronomy: Discovery for every day!

It's a doddle to fit & I now have a dual speed focuser. I tested it last night for the first time & it worked a treat after the mirror had cooled down on my scope.

These are a couple of pictures of it fitted to mine;

[marshy123]

Right, I'm going in. Where's that hack saw...?

[marshy123]

btw, cheers for the tip Tich but the 130 focuser is WAY below the one on the 200 !!!

[tich]

No problem I didn't know if the 130M focuser was of the same design to the 200P as I've never seen one in the flesh. I would imagine the 200P is bigger just thought the crayford part of it would be the same.