HEQ5 play in Dec

[Rob]

All, looking for some help/guidance with regards to some play I have in my old HEQ5  Dec axis. Basically I’ve found that while the tube is mounted and locked you can rock it back and forth.. only a small amount, but it’s enough to annoy as I’m sure this is not helping with stability as my tube is 1.2m long!. I’m thinking maybe strip it down?. Or is something required to just be tightened up?. 

[knobby]

You should be able to loosen the large grub screws on top then slowly and carefully adjust the small grub screws on the sides ... Search for Astro baby HEQ5 service on Google - she explains it really well with pictures.

[knobby]

https://www.astro-baby.com/heq5-rebuild/heq5-we1.htm

[City9Town0]

I found this helpful...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x79akiJO3pU

[Tommohawk]

Just bear in mind that a small amount of play is probably better than binding on some sectors. If you aren't noticing any issues with performance, it might be safer to leave well enough alone. If you leave slight imbalance when setting up this should prevent any sudden DEC swings in use.

That said Astro Baby's guide is great and you might fancy getting to know and fettle you mount!

[Rob]

Thanks guys. Yes I have Astro Baby’s instructions to hand ( used to be a regular round here ) .

Appreciate the comments

Rob

Edited April 10, 2021 by Rob

[Rob]

20 hours ago, City9Town0 said:

I found this helpful...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x79akiJO3pU

Very good video, thank you.

[Rob]

Sure hope this thread helps others also. Its also interesting the backlash may not be apparent until a long tube or heavy scope is mounted like I have here. This will help tremendously with stability (as I'm a non/light imager).

Rob