Mounting without tons of money

[Boyd]

I have an old xt8 reflector that does good yeoman astronomy, but I've grown tired of the dobs mont. Is there a fairly inexpensive goto mount I can prop the ota on. My primary use is observation club stuff like doubles, planets, Herschel objects, galaxies, etc. nothing CCD.

My budget is very low, so assume my only real requirement is not shaky. Don't know if what I want is possible for under $500.

Thanks

[FunkyKoval35]

http://www.f1telescopes.co.uk/shop/part-exchange-and-display-telescopes/skywatcher-heq5-pro-synscan-goto-equatorial-mount-black-exd/

[Peter Drew]

Hello Boyd, welcome to this forum. I think you already have the best mount for the XT8 within your suggested budget. I have one the same and could recommend the Intelliscope

"GOTO" system as an upgrade to your current use and within budget. 

[Boyd]

I don't see that you can buy the mount separate for the intellescope. The other option is a little steep price wise.

How do people feel about used equipment ala ebay?

[orly_andico]

You can get a used CG5 GT off astromart or the CN classifieds below $500. Better to buy there than on ebay. There's more community vetting.

Do note that a newtonian on an EQ mount is a pain. The eyepiece position ends up at odd neck-breaking angles.

[orly_andico]

Can't figure out how to edit.. note you'll also have to buy tube rings and a dovetail bar.  That's another $100.

[orly_andico]

e.g. http://www.cloudynights.com/classifieds/item/35331-cg5-asgt-with-tripod-and-pier-extention/  

$300.

[Boyd]

I like that, thanks, but I don't think he will meet me half way from Florida...

I will rethink. The ota is decent, but the mount is coming apart...cheep particle board. If would not be an ideal grab and go, nor would I want to fuss with it a lot.

I could drop back an punt with my 3" refractor, but that can't get many of the Herschel objects...