Nexstar SE8 accessory tray tightening

[Juan from Madrid]

Hi.
I understand that the accessory tray of my Nexstar SE8 tripod acts as a spreader for the tripod to increase its rigidity.

However I am hesitant when tightening the locking knob, because I fear to damage the legs surface or to flex the tray itself.

Any advice on this? 

Thanks in advance.

[LukeSkywatcher]

I have an 8se also and the tray doesnt quite fit the tripod. Tighten it as much as you are happy with. 

[Ruud]

I too had a tray would not touch all three legs legs. I did this:

• remove the telescope with base and all from the tripod.
• loosen the bolt of the tray quite a lot, a few cm
• turn the tripod upside down with its legs fully spread
• lower the tray and make it touch all three legs - it won't be completely level, just lay it so that the hole is centered and it's in contact with the legs.
• tighten the bolt

This way the tray will be in contact with each of the three legs and there will be tension on them all.

I chose for quite a bit of tension. It makes the whole setup nice and stable. Apparently the legs don't dent easily.

[Juan from Madrid]

Good suggestions, thanks.