Recommend an M8 to M12 thread converter for AZ GTI

[Shimrod]

I've just received by star adventurer counterweight kit to use with my AZ GTI. I have an m8 to m12 thread converter on order from Amazon, but having a closer look at the mount I am pretty certain it is not going to fit - the converter is a 'nut' style coupler like this coupler The only thread 'insert' style I can find seem to come in packs of 20 which cost nearly the same as the counterweight!

What have other people used? If you can suggest something I can pick up from B&Q or Screwfix that would be even better - the forecast is clear patches for tonight so I can hopefully try out t he mount.

[Oldfort]

For those of us not familiar with the details of the AZ GTI and the star adventurer counterweight, it would be helpful to know the sizes, and which is male /female. 

There's a lot of hardware available off the shelf, but what you want may be too specialised for the likes of B&Q etc.

[ScouseSpaceCadet]

I bought these. They're cheaper elsewhere but they were UK stock and delivered quickly.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Thread-Reducer-Thread-Repair-Inserts-A4-Stainless-Steel-Blind-Ended-5-Pack-/224062432022?_trksid=p2349624.m46890.l49286

Option: M8 x15mm (M12 reduces to M8)

Edited April 4, 2021 by ScouseSpaceCadet

[Shimrod]

6 hours ago, ScouseSpaceCadet said:

I bought these. They're cheaper elsewhere but they were UK stock and delivered quickly.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Thread-Reducer-Thread-Repair-Inserts-A4-Stainless-Steel-Blind-Ended-5-Pack-/224062432022?_trksid=p2349624.m46890.l49286

Option: M8 x15mm (M12 reduces to M8)

Thanks, I have some on order!

Can I ask what firmware you are using? I managed to get out with the mount for the first time  last night and did polar alignment using Sharpcap. My go to seemed reasonably accurate (I am using my ASI533 and a light lens which seems ok without a counterweight) except for one target that should have been high in the southern sky was pointing about 20 degrees down. I had location,date,time correct otherwise none of the other go to would have worked. I am on firmware 3.26 which I have read has some issues with Dec tracking - I don't know whether to downgrade to 3.20 or carry out some further testing.

[ScouseSpaceCadet]

I'm on 3.26 but using the mount in alt az mode. No issues.

[Shimrod]

For anyone who comes across this thread later, the coupler I linked to in my first post was too wide to fit the mount, so I am now waiting on the thread inserts as recommended by @ScouseSpaceCadet

[TerraC]

On 06/04/2021 at 14:38, Shimrod said:

For anyone who comes across this thread later, the coupler I linked to in my first post was too wide to fit the mount, so I am now waiting on the thread inserts as recommended by @ScouseSpaceCadet

Damn - If i'd noticed this earlier I could've sent you one in the post as I bought the pack of 5no and obviously only needed one.  

Also i'd recommend getting some thread lock to get the adapter to grip tight on the bar.   They are quality threads and speedy service from the specialist marine people.  

 

[Shimrod]

1 hour ago, TerraC said:

Damn - If i'd noticed this earlier I could've sent you one in the post as I bought the pack of 5no and obviously only needed one.  

Also i'd recommend getting some thread lock to get the adapter to grip tight on the bar.   They are quality threads and speedy service from the specialist marine people.  

 

Yes, I've got four spares as well now! Given my knack for losing small items I'm sure they'll come in handy!