Focuser upgrade for 150PDS Newtonian

[masjstovel]

Ok, if its as simple as that, i can understand why @Davey-T was joking with me. Just a bit "scary" to do this for the first time, just want to make sure i do it right!

[johninderby]

Just put masking tape over where the new holes will be drilled so you can mark the new holes properly. Then take a small nail and  hammer and use it to make a tiny dent in the tube where you are going to drill. Really just to  mark the surface slightly. Stops the drill bit from wandering around.

Edited August 15, 2020 by johninderby

[masjstovel]

@johninderby thanks alot! You have been great help! Hopefully i will not have 100 questions for you when i recieve the focuser too:D

[masjstovel]

I've now installed the focuser. The tape-method for the new holes worked perfectly. I couldnt wait for the shims, so i got a friend to 3D-print some, Had him print even more so now the base center is flush with the tube.
Now, it turned out the default hole for the PDS focuser was pretty huge. 
Also i dont quite understand the patent of the base, since its flat on a curved shape (telescope). 
As you can see on the pictures, there is quite some room (picture #4 is with focuser attached) underneath the base for light to sneak in. This cant be good, or wouldnt it matter? Light can sneak in sideways, but if i imagine i sit on the secondary mirror and look up towards the focuser, its covered, sort of like inside of a house where there are windows but a roof - in lack of a better example....  

Edited August 24, 2020 by masjstovel

[johninderby]

Just get a bit of self adhesive foam rubber off eBay. It’s cheap and comes in many thicknesses. Just put a strip either side and trim where it overhangs the centre hole.

Edited August 24, 2020 by johninderby

[zemino]

Hi masjstovel, thanks for sharing all the pictures and info.

I was considering exactly this focuser on my 150PDS. A few quick questions:

- How many shims did you have to use in the end?

- Does the ZWO EAF fit easily or do you need extra fiddling (3D supports or other)?

- most important question of all..... was it worth it in hindsight?

 

thanks!