January 2019
30/34
www.trackthestars.com
Adjustment of Azimuth friction drive
The Azimuth drive is a 2 stage construction. The first stage is a worm gear with
a backlash free spring loaded worm assembly. The second stage is an internal
friction drive. The friction of the friction drive can be adjusted.
From the Factory the friction drive is adjusted fairly tight meaning the mount can
only be turned by the internal motors. This gives the most precise and stable
tracking needed for astro imaging.
If you want to be able to turn the telescope by hand
it’s necessary to loosen the
friction drive:
1.
Place the mount head upside down on the telescope dovetail saddle on a
solid table.
WARNING:
Be sure to lock the Altitude screws well first.
2.
Remove the pier adapter from the mount head ( See Appendix B)
3.
Remove the two plastic caps. Can be lifted with the sharp edge of a knife.
4.
A 2.5mm Allan key is used to adjust the friction. Insert the LONG end of
the Allan key in the hex socket found behind the plastic caps.