Parts Needed
Be sure to unpack all the LX850 boxes and identify each needed component. To assemble the Meade LX850, you will need the following parts:
Study the below reference image to become familiar with the LX850 components and how they assemble together.
FIG. 2
STEP 1: Setup the tripod.
a. Place the tripod on stable ground away from nearby lights and where
the North Star Polaris is visible.
b. Spread the tripod legs so they are evenly spaced.
c. Adjust the tripod height so the top of the tripod is level while tripod legs
evenly spaced.
STEP 2: Attach the RA assembly to the tripod
a. Insert
the
tripod mounting stud
(Fig 1, #10) through the tripod
spreader (Fig 1, #9) as shown.
b. Place
the
RA assembly
(Fig 1, #7)
onto the
tripod head
(Fig 1,
#8) and secure in place with the
tripod mounting stud
(Fig 1, #10).
The
RA assembly
(Fig 1, #7)
should be facing toward the North
Star Polaris (approximately true North).
c. With
the
tripod spreader arms
(Fig 1, #9) making contact with
each leg, tighten the
tripod mounting stud
(Fig 1, #10) to a fi rm
feel. The mount should look like Fig. 2.
STEP 3: Attach the DEC assembly
Note:
Before attaching the
DEC assembly
(Fig 1, #2)
,
it is advised to
adjust the mount latitude to your observing site latitude. See Fig 2. This
will allow the weight of the
DEC assembly
(Fig 1, #2) to rest on the
RA
assembly
(Fig 1, #7) while performing the installation. Take caution to
not dropt the
DEC assembly
(Fig 1, #2).
a. To begin, line up the RA registration marks on the right side of the
RA
assembly
(Fig 1, #7)
.
b. Using the 5/16” hex wrench tighten the three
RA clutch lock
screws
to prevent the
RA assembly
(Fig 1, #7) from rotating.
c. Place
the
DEC assembly
(Fig 1, #2) onto the
RA assembly
(Fig 1, #7) as shown in the fi gure 3.
d. Insert the four
¼-20 x ¾”
(Fig 1, #1) screws and lightly secure all
screws using the included 3/16” hex wrench.
Note:
It is best to lightly tighten the bottom mounting screws fi rst,
then fi nish with the top screws since one of the top screws is diffi cult
to access.
e. Now tighten all four screws tightly until secure.
• 4 pcs ¼-20x ¾” screws
• 5 pcs ¼-20 x 1” screws
• 1 pcs
3/8
-16 x 1” screws
• LX850 RA assembly
• LX850 DEC assembly
• LX850 Saddle plate
• Starlock cable
• Starlock counterweight
• Tripod with spreader & mounting stud
•
3/16
” Hex wrench
•
5/16
” Hex wrench
FIG. 3
