equatorial mount both clutch stuck

[todick]

Hi

I have and old celestron G-8N Newtonian telescope with a  equatorial mount, now find that both the RA and the Dec clutch release levers do not work.

is there an easy way to free them up so I can re-balance the telescope properly.

regards

[Charic]

I'd be considering WD40, wrap a cloth to prevent over spraying, but just enough to penetrate the workings!
A gloved hand, or use the cloth, rather than any  direct force from a tool. 

[todick]

thanks for the reply

just done it so will wait a bit and see

 

 

[Charic]

If that works, I'd give the 'parts' a wipe down to remove any excess penetrating oil, then possibly grease or vaseline the threaded parts and/or any bearings, although any remaining Wd40, however slight should protect the workings.

My 'old' Celestron 127EQ was stored in a tent for many months with no adverse side effects or any rust, I'm sure when I first stripped the whole scope, included the GEM (German Equatorial Mount) WD was introduced somewhere along the line!