Frankenfocuser

[Stargazer_00]

Just a really small thread to show some modifications for a SkyWatcher supplied crayford 2" focuser.

Rather than upgrade the focuser to the PD-S variant or the low profile options (£100 and £130 ish depending) and then have to add on extension tubes and source a 1.25" from 2" converter I opted to buy the Lacerta microfocuser upgrade for both my scopes. I upgraded the Skywatcher thumbscrew extensions to compression ring extenstion and sourced a self centering 2" to 1.25" reducer. you twist the whole assembly to tighten up to the 1.25" barrel. It grips smooth sided and saftey recessed barrels no problem, tight as a vice.

The focuser works really well, the lacerta has a lovely weight and feel to it. I counted 13 full revolutions of the small focuser wheel to one full revolution of the larger focuser [removed word].

Focuser upgrade was £60, delivers next day from Modern Astronomy

35mm 2" extension (£18) and 1.25" self centering converter (£19) from Altair Astro - i believe you'd need these whatever replacement focuser you installed (?)

Not really DIY, but not sure where else to post it. Might help someone considering this focuser modification over an entirely new replacement focuser.

[tich]

I've fitted the same focuser on my 200P & I'm very happy with it.

Thread here.