16
CW Shaft Locking Screw
CW Mounting Nose
(1)
(2)
(3)
Front CW Position Screw
CW Shaft Locking Screw
CW Mounting Nose
(1)
(2)
(3)
Front CW Position Screw
(a)
(b)
Figure 11. Install counterweight shaft
If the latitude of the observation location is lower than 10º, thread in the Rear CW Position Screw (a
hex head set screw) before tightening the Front CW Positioning Screw to avoid CW hit tripod legs. Then
tighten the Front CW Positioning Screw.
Rear CW Position Screw
Figure 12. Tilt counterweight shaft for low altitude
CW Safety Screw
CW Bar
Counterweight
CW Locking Screw
Figure 13. Install counterweight
STEP 7. Install Counterweight
Before installing the counterweight, make sure that both R.A. and DEC Gear Switches are fully
engaged to avoid sudden mount movements which could cause injury and/or damage the mount gear
system and your equipment.
Make sure the mount is at the zero position (i.e. counterweight shaft is pointing to the ground) when
installing the counterweight.
Turn the R.A. gear switch to OPEN position to set the R.A. axis free before loading the CW.
Remove CW Safety Cap at the end of CW Shaft. With the wider opening towards the shaft end, guide CW
through the shaft. Use the CW Locking Screw to hold the CW in place. Place Safety Cap back onto the
shaft. Turn the R.A. gear switch to CLOSE position again.
A CEM25 mount comes with a 10.4 lbs (4.7kg) counterweight. It should be able to balance a total
payload of about 13 lbs (6kg) for a 8” diameter telescope. An optional CW or extension bar is needed for a
heavier payload or a larger diameter Telescope.
STEP 8. Attach and Balance an OTA
After attaching an OTA and accessories to the mount, the CEM25 mount must be balanced in both
R.A. and DEC axes to ensure minimum stress on the mount (such as gears and motors inside).
Make sure
the OTA is properly secured.
