TheSkySearchers

I had a CR2 Moonlite focuser on my XT10, and that scope was traded (with its stock focuser) for a mount... so I had an extra focuser.

The helical focuser on my 14.5" is OK but not ideal for mounting a DSLR.

So, I swapped focusers yesterday.

Here is the dob in stock configuration with the helical focuser:
I removed the focuser board from the scope and fitted the new Moonlite to the old board. I took my time and used a squaring tool to be sure everything is orthogonal.
Then I marked and carefully drilled pilot holes and test fitted.
Then I used slightly longer hex head bolts and used the Moonlite backing plate to sandwich the focuser to the mount slab.
AAt that point it looked right, so I painted the shiny lock nuts with chalkboard black (Home Depot - cheap and great), and then remounted everything to the top of the scope.
The fitment was pretty good! I didn't need to change the angle of the focuser for collimation, it was better than the original.

Collimation took about 5 min - I am happy to have the focuser installed straight. Sometimes my "skills" leave me in a quandary.


Thanks for reading to the bottom.

Kind regards,

Nice mod Ian!

Bigzmey wrote: ↑Tue Jun 02, 2020 6:53 pmNice mod Ian!

Thanks Andrey, the scope is much improved IMHO.

That is a clear and lucid explanation!

Cool! I also have a moonlite focuser.

helicon wrote: ↑Sat Jun 20, 2020 2:30 pm Cool! I also have a moonlite focuser.

They are great, simple Crayfords. Beautifully machined to close tolerances.

The Happy Parrot wrote: ↑Sat Jun 20, 2020 2:18 pm That is a clear and lucid explanation!

Thanks!!