Sweet deal or no?

[fmandani]

Since im a college student, I had not been planning on getting an astrophotography set up for a while. I love my Dob 10" and was happy with it for now. I came across a pretty good deal on CL a few days ago. A CG-5 motorized mount with 8" Newtonian telescope. I know its not ideal for imaging, my plan was to get a NEQ-6 & ED-80, but the lister was selling for $ 200 because he said the motor was not working and the bolts were stripped. I ended up running him down to $180 and have been fixing it up all day.

After doing research I assumed the altitude adjustment bolt was bent. Apparently its a very common problem. It took a few long and painful hours to get it out! (Image below: Theres been a lot of discussion on this, message me if you want to know how I did it). Luckily the threads weren't stripped.

The motor was fine, just needed to be taken apart and properly mounted.

Anyways, this is my first set up like this and I'm very excited. Im still trying to figure out how to use this, any tips and suggestions would be appreciated. I plan on using my DSLR for imaging. And finally, did I get a good deal or no?

[baggywrinkle]

Well, done. I think you got a decent deal...What are those bolts made from? Rubber?

[fmandani]

Not rubber, but you would think so right?

[brantuk]

For $180 I think you've got a fabulous package there. With a bit of tinkering and some replacement bolts you've done a smashing job and got a great bargain indeed.

[Gonzo]

If you're going to keep that tripod, fill it up with fine sand... I've done it on mine and I would say that 99% of the vibrations are gone now. It was a night/day difference.

[fmandani]

Does this tripod shake during tracking?

[fmandani]

Does this tripod shake during tracking?

[Gonzo]

Does this tripod shake during tracking?

That aluminium tripod will shake if you don't modify it, I have an EQ3-2 with a very similar tripod.

[cotterless45]

I filled my Eq3-2 legs up with cement, it's now wonderfully stable ,

Nick.

[fmandani]

Is it as simple as pouring the cement or sand in from the openings or should I disassemble the tripod first? I would think transporting the tripod would be quite messy if I used sand since it would pour out of the top of the tripod?

[Scott]

I filled my Eq3-2 legs up with cement, it's now wonderfully stable ,

Nick.

cement hey.... such an obvious choice now that you've mentioned it

[Scott]

I realise its probably just for the pic but I wouldn't leave the ota on without weights for too long. It might put excess strain on the gears