Dovetail mounting plate for eq3-2

[Hypernova]

Does anyone know where I can source one of these from, the mount I received for free was missing this piece. I can't be sure if this is the item I require to fit a scope with tube rings and dovetail to my mount.

Dovetail Standard Plate 150mm

[Cornelius Varley]

The earlier versions of the EQ3-2 (pre Synscan) mount didn't have a dovetail slot like the newer versions. See figure 7 & 8 on page 7 of the EQ3-2 / EQ5 manual link The rings bolt directly to the mount.

Peter

[Hypernova]

Ahhh now I see, so I don't need a dovetail at all to mount a scope to my mount. Is there any disadvantage of this kind of mounting systems compared to a dovetail apart from ease of insertion?

And would I have any trouble finding a set of compatible tube rings or should any work?

[Cornelius Varley]

Ahhh now I see, so I don't need a dovetail at all to mount a scope to my mount. Is there any disadvantage of this kind of mounting systems compared to a dovetail apart from ease of insertion?

And would I have any trouble finding a set of compatible tube rings or should any work?

The disadvantage of the old system was that the rings stayed on the mount so could get knocked or broken. Any Skywatcher rings should be suitable, just select the correct diameter for your telescope, the rings attach to the mount with a short M6 bolt.

Peter