EQ-3 mount head on AZ4 tripod?

[YKSE]

I'm thinking of upgrading the EQ-3's aluminium tripod with steel legs, has anyone tried to put an EQ-3 head on AZ4's tripod? or even better, just switch mount heads?

[JamesF]

I believe the tripod heads are different. However, if the threads on the retaining bolts (the ones that pass through the tripod head from underneath) are the same then you may be able to swap the tripod heads over.

James

[John]

I'm assuming that we are talking about the EQ3-2 here. The AZ-4 uses the HEQ5 / EQ5 1.75 inch steel tripod and the tripod hub is compatible with an EQ3-2 - I used to use an EQ3-2 with the same steel tripod.

I reckon you may well be able to just switch heads and put the AZ-4 on the EQ3-2 aluminum tripod as well.

[JamesF]

Does the AZ4 have the pin on the tripod head that the EQ3-2 AZ adjusting bolts push against then? I didn't think it did.

James

[nightfisher]

Does the AZ4 have the pin on the tripod head that the EQ3-2 AZ adjusting bolts push against then? I didn't think it did.

James

Yes, AZ 4 has the cast pin

[John]

Yes, AZ 4 has the cast pin

Yep and the AZ-4 mount head has a recess cast into it to receive the pin.

[YKSE]

Thanks for the replys. much appreciated!

What's the difference between the EQ3-2 and the (old) EQ3? I bought the new mount for a couple of month ago from Teleskop-Service, it should be EQ3-2, right?

[JamesF]

Yep and the AZ-4 mount head has a recess cast into it to receive the pin.

Ahh, right. For some reason I was sure it didn't. Clearly I was mistaken. I agree that they just just swap over then.

James

[YKSE]

My EQ3 has a cast pin, the recess cast of diameter 6cm, and outer diameter 10cm.

[RichieP]

Thanks for the replys. much appreciated!

What's the difference between the EQ3-2 and the (old) EQ3? I bought the new mount for a couple of month ago from Teleskop-Service, it should be EQ3-2, right?

It will be the 3-2. It's been the EQ3-2 for many years. Bought mine in 2003.

[YKSE]

Just like to thank all the replies I'got here, I've bought the AZ4, here are some pictures about swapping the two mounts:

1. EQ3-2 and AZ4 mounts as they are:

2. Close-up of AZ4 tripod:

3. Swapped EQ3-2 and AZ4:

The steel tube tripod is about 1kg heavier than the aluminium one, so I have a steadier EQ3 and more ligtht-weight grab-and-go AZ4 :-)