Telescope Reviews: Mount for TEC160ED

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insinu8
sage

Reged: 01/22/08

Loc: Sunnyvale, CA

Mount for TEC160ED
#2429506 - 05/30/08 03:23 PM

Folks,

I've just put a deposit on a TEC160ED. I'm concerned, however, about my mount. I have an Orion Atlas. Although it is rated at 40# and this OTA will probably weigh about 30# (just visual work - no finder, just rings & a Telrad) some folks have expressed dismay at this combination and I take that seriously.

My obvious choice is to try and get an AP900 + pier for this OTA, but I've just spent my budget on the OTA. I'll have to wait for the AP until next year.

So, what I'd like to know is...can I put the Atlas head on a different tripod/pier and make it more stable while I wait? One thought I had was to get the AP pier I would expect to get for the 900 mount and try to find an adapter plate for the Atlas...has anyone done this before? Will this be a more suitable platform for the short run?

I have heard about people filling their tripod legs with sand or other things to make them heavier/more stable. I use shock mount pads for my tripod now and they do a good job of minimizing vibrations, but that's different, right?

Post Extras:

LLEEGE
True Blue

Reged: 03/03/05

Loc: Cloud-chester,NY

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: insinu8]
#2429596 - 05/30/08 03:55 PM

MI250, NJP, AP900.

Post Extras:

gewehr43
sage

Reged: 07/07/06

Loc: Albuquerque, New Mexico

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: LLEEGE]
#2429666 - 05/30/08 04:21 PM

AP1200, Paramount, or Parallax Instruments

http://www.parallaxinstruments.com/mount.htm

Edited by gewehr43 (05/30/08 04:22 PM)

Post Extras:

Strgazr27

Reged: 10/04/04

Loc: StonyHill Observatory

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: gewehr43]
#2429780 - 05/30/08 05:10 PM

Although I know of 1 TEC160 on an Atlas I consider it insane or at the least REAL gutsy. I would consider the minimum a CGE and to reduce the "Pucker Factor" a bit more I would agree with Luke......MI-250 - NJP or the 900.

Post Extras:

southmike
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 11/22/04

Loc: Fayetteville, NC

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: Strgazr27]
#2429811 - 05/30/08 05:21 PM

titan?
what are the aprox current values of these mounts too..
including the titan..I have never sen one for sale but I know the hold around 100# iirc.

i have been out of touch for a while now on pricing

Post Extras:

Jeff Young
Post Laureate

Reged: 08/04/05

Loc: Ireland

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: southmike]
#2429897 - 05/30/08 05:57 PM

Well, sure guys, that TEC160 deserves an AP900 or equivalent. But it's not like the Atlas is going to break in half and drop the 160 on the ground.

I think putting the Atlas on one of APs portable piers until the piggy bank fattens again is a great idea. Even if you can't find an adapter off the shelf, any competent machine shop could whip something up from some scrap aluminium.

Another option would be to get a Losmandy G11 tripod. AP sells an adapter to mount the 900 on it, and you might be able to find someone who makes an adapter to mount the Atlas on it in the meantime.

I wouldn't fill your existing legs with anything. Hanging one or two gallon jugs of water from the spreader might help, though.

-- Jeff.

Post Extras:

David Pavlich
Transmographied

Reged: 05/18/05

Loc: Mandeville, LA USA

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: southmike]
#2429961 - 05/30/08 06:31 PM

Quote:

titan?
what are the aprox current values of these mounts too..
including the titan..I have never sen one for sale but I know the hold around 100# iirc.

i have been out of touch for a while now on pricing

The Titan is around $6000 new (no tripod) and are rare as hen's teeth on the used market. The last I heard, there's about a 6 month wait for a new one.

David

Post Extras:

southmike
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 11/22/04

Loc: Fayetteville, NC

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: David Pavlich]
#2430236 - 05/30/08 08:51 PM

soo

atlas 1500 Payload 40lb
lxd750 1500~2k Payload 75?
g11 2k+ Payload 60lb
cge 3k Payload: 65 lbs
titan 6~7k+ Payload 100lb
njp 6k ish Payload 70lb load
MI-250 Go-To $7k Payload 75lb
ap900 8k+ Payload 70 lbs
Tak EM-400 Temma 8k Payload 85 lb
ap1200 9k plus Payload 140lbs
paralax 8~10k Payload 150 lbs.
paramount 12k 150 pl
EM-500 12k+ 120lb

I am liking the titan a lot...for big boys
but I still like the 750.

if meade had a foward thinking person they would make a
new lxd750,,,lxd 1000 75~100 lb payload 400~5500 and they should have a market.

Post Extras:

Eddgie
Postmaster

Reged: 02/01/06

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: insinu8]
#2430259 - 05/30/08 09:03 PM Attachment (83 downloads)

If you just need something to tide you over, a CHEAP way to go might be a used Meade LXD 750.

I picked one of these up a while back for my 6" f/8 AP.

Works QUITE well...

They don't take a Losmandy dovetail without an adapter... But they apparently are simple to make.. The guy that traded me the mount turned one out pretty quickly. Many others I have seen already have this mod...

Edited by Eddgie (05/30/08 09:42 PM)

Post Extras:

insinu8
sage

Reged: 01/22/08

Loc: Sunnyvale, CA

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: Jeff Young]
#2430504 - 05/30/08 10:56 PM

Jeff,

That is what I had in mind. It seems to me that, unless I'm misunderstanding, the tripod is the weak link. This was why I was thinking of mounting the Atlas onto an AP portable pier until I could afford the AP900.

I may have a solution for the mounting plate as well. Orion sells a pier extension for the Atlas for their own tripods. It's only $70. I may be able to modify the adapter plate it has to work with the AP pier.

I've written to AP to ask about an adapter plate that will work with the Atlas. If they can't suggest anything, I'll go buy the Orion extension and take the adapter plate & AP pier (once I get it) to work where I can have a couple of the engineers figure something out for me in the machine shop.

I'm just looking for a way to enjoy the 160 while I wait for AP to produce their 2009 run of AP900 mounts (2008 are sold out). I signed up on their notification list today.

Post Extras:

Strgazr27

Reged: 10/04/04

Loc: StonyHill Observatory

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: insinu8]
#2430522 - 05/30/08 11:04 PM

Chris,

The Orion extension is not the way to go. Raising the mount will only add stability issues. Pier Tech makes an adapter block as well as having precise parts make you one.

You do know that ATWB has 1 or 2 900's ready for delivery right now

Here is an AP 160 on an EQ6. Doable but owning an EQ6 with 45 lbs of payload, that 160, once you add in rings, diagonal EP and finder will be AT THE LIMIT.....

CS's

Edited by Strgazr27 (05/30/08 11:08 PM)

Post Extras:

Dave LoPresti
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 12/25/03

Loc: Preston, Connecticut

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: Strgazr27]
#2430533 - 05/30/08 11:09 PM

Or the new Vixen Atlux . 75lb rating

But I really want a Mach1.

Edited by Dave LoPresti (05/30/08 11:27 PM)

Post Extras:

insinu8
sage

Reged: 01/22/08

Loc: Sunnyvale, CA

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: Strgazr27]
#2430738 - 05/31/08 02:05 AM

Quote:

The Orion extension is not the way to go. Raising the mount will only add stability issues. Pier Tech makes an adapter block as well as having precise parts make you one.

Oh, I wasn't going to use the extension tube, just pirate the adapter plate off of it since the top is already configured for the Atlas head. Maybe I just need to drill & tap some extra holes to line up with the AP pier...

Quote:

You do know that ATWB has 1 or 2 900's ready for delivery right now

That's just mean!!!

Edited by insinu8 (05/31/08 02:06 AM)

Post Extras:

David Pavlich
Transmographied

Reged: 05/18/05

Loc: Mandeville, LA USA

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: Dave LoPresti]
#2431018 - 05/31/08 08:51 AM

Quote:

Or the new Vixen Atlux . 75lb rating

But I really want a Mach1.

There was a lot of discussion about the rating of this mount. I may be wrong, but I thought that the 75lb rating was for gear AND counterweight as opposed to most mounts that rate by gear only.

David

Post Extras:

scope dog
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 07/26/04

Loc: USA

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: David Pavlich]
#2431244 - 05/31/08 11:16 AM Attachment (112 downloads)

Dave,

Here is a pic of my CI700H and my Atlux. I'm in the process of getting another weight made and maybe next week I can test it out. My overall impression is I am impressed. The wormshaft is massive and is held in place with 4 8mm hex bolts. The mount is tight, well made and simple, just how I like it. The mount itself looks and feels like it can hold 100lbs, but I think the tripod, very nice and lite is were the 75lb's hits the limit. What I have seen with tripods, they tend to flex under stress. The G11 tripod is the exception. When this stress happens, the twisting, flex effects the goto, more so under high power. Also when tighting the adjustable legs, the compression clamp needs to be considered as this may be the weakest link under heavy load.
So when a item is tested to place a limit, the worst case is used and not the best. CI700H

Post Extras:

David Pavlich
Transmographied

Reged: 05/18/05

Loc: Mandeville, LA USA

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: scope dog]
#2431619 - 05/31/08 02:47 PM

Quote:

Dave,

Here is a pic of my CI700H and my Atlux. I'm in the process of getting another weight made and maybe next week I can test it out. My overall impression is I am impressed. The wormshaft is massive and is held in place with 4 8mm hex bolts. The mount is tight, well made and simple, just how I like it. The mount itself looks and feels like it can hold 100lbs, but I think the tripod, very nice and lite is were the 75lb's hits the limit. What I have seen with tripods, they tend to flex under stress. The G11 tripod is the exception. When this stress happens, the twisting, flex effects the goto, more so under high power. Also when tighting the adjustable legs, the compression clamp needs to be considered as this may be the weakest link under heavy load.
So when a item is tested to place a limit, the worst case is used and not the best. CI700H

Ah, yes Jim. Now that I read your post, I now remember that it was the mount that everyone had concerns about.

I'm glad you posted that comparative picture. That is, indeed, a big mount. I'm looking forward to your report.

David

Post Extras:

PhilG
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 01/27/05

Loc: Denver, CO - USA

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: David Pavlich]
#2432951 - 06/01/08 09:34 AM

The Mach1 would easily handle this scope for visual use if the 30 lb number for the 160Ed is accurate. I had around 40 lbs of equipment on mine the other night and it works great. It's going to be more portable than most of the other mounts you listed as well. There's a wait list but occasionally one pops up for sale at close to new price.

Phil

Post Extras:

Mike Clemens
Frozen to Eyepiece

Reged: 11/26/05

Loc: Alaska, USA

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: PhilG]
#2433553 - 06/01/08 04:14 PM

> The Mach1 would easily handle this scope for visual use if
> the 30 lb number

It's not the weight... it's the 50" long focal length... a CG-5 will handle the weight.

Post Extras:

gordianknot
professor emeritus

Reged: 09/04/05

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: Mike Clemens]
#2433721 - 06/01/08 05:42 PM

AP says on their web site: "Will accommodate Astro-Physics and similar fast refractors up to our 160mm f7.5 StarFire EDF, 8" - 11" SCT's and 6" - 8" Maks"

Addition: Remember that Celestron sells the C6R on the CG-5.

Edited by gordianknot (06/01/08 05:43 PM)

Post Extras:

scope dog
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 07/26/04

Loc: USA

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: David Pavlich]
#2434232 - 06/01/08 11:05 PM

Hi Don,

Eric Ng10"F6 newt . To me 10"newt looks like the limit on the Atlux as this is a difficult setup. This is a 40lb newt scope
and 30lb counter weight. To me looks like a worse case. Shorter heavier scope could work with good results

Post Extras:

southmike
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 11/22/04

Loc: Fayetteville, NC

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: scope dog]
#2434797 - 06/02/08 10:56 AM

is the atlux a goto mount?

Post Extras:

scope dog
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 07/26/04

Loc: USA

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: southmike]
#2434923 - 06/02/08 12:00 PM

The one Eric is using is the new Atlux w/skybook.
This model uses different motors, well the gear box is high precision and much higher toque than the older Atlux. I like the Skybook very advance and simple. It seems to automaticly do time consuming things. Like when you zoom on a object, the align button is displayed and the mount adjust
speed for this process of aligment.
In than manual is states 22kg (48lbs) excluding counter weights " my mistake". manual

Post Extras:

Paul G
Post Laureate

Reged: 05/08/03

Loc: Freedonia

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: gordianknot]
#2437051 - 06/03/08 12:00 PM

Quote:

AP says on their web site: "Will accommodate Astro-Physics and similar fast refractors up to our 160mm f7.5 StarFire EDF, 8" - 11" SCT's and 6" - 8" Maks"

I've had my 155 f7 on the Mach 1, no issues at all. The 900 would be my long term choice if extreme portability isn't important.

Post Extras:

southmike
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 11/22/04

Loc: Fayetteville, NC

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: Paul G]
#2437075 - 06/03/08 12:09 PM

how heavy is your speed racer unit..

Post Extras:

blueman
Vendor Blue Sky Accessories

Reged: 07/20/07

Loc: California

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: insinu8]
#2437228 - 06/03/08 01:33 PM Attachment (58 downloads)

How about a Losmandy G-11? I handles my 5" f/9 and 3" f/11.3 piggy backed quite well and does astrophoto with it.
Blueman

Post Extras:

insinu8
sage

Reged: 01/22/08

Loc: Sunnyvale, CA

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: blueman]
#2477129 - 06/23/08 12:57 AM

I've found a G-11 tripod for a good price. Anyone know of an adapter I can get to put the Atlas on it?

The reason I got the G-11 tripod was so I could mount a DM-6 on it, btw

And yes, I plan to use both the DM-6 and the Atlas for the 160ED (If I can find someone who makes an adapter for the Atlas/G-11)

I may start another thread to see if anyone knows of an adapter for this...

Post Extras:

SPACEMAN
sage

Reged: 01/30/05

Loc: grömme,Belgium

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: scope dog]
#2477309 - 06/23/08 05:21 AM

Just go for an Atlas EQ6 mount. Can handle the load.

Post Extras:

blueman
Vendor Blue Sky Accessories

Reged: 07/20/07

Loc: California

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: insinu8]
#2479424 - 06/24/08 02:41 AM Attachment (77 downloads)

The choice is clear of course, but the money is way over my head.

Blueman

Post Extras:

Jared
Post Laureate

Reged: 10/11/05

Loc: Piedmont, California, U.S.

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: southmike]
#2482233 - 06/25/08 12:33 PM

Quote:

how heavy is your speed racer unit..

I'm not Paul, but I do own a Mach1. The head is 36 pounds (per the Astro-Physics spec sheet--I haven't actually weighted mine). That's actually quite light for its capacity. It is physically about the same size as a G-11, though I manage to fit it in the same Pelican 1600 case that I used for my GM-8. In fact, it fits in the case a little better than the GM-8 since the motors don't stick out to the sides (which required I remove them every time I packed up the GM-8).

Post Extras:

insinu8
sage

Reged: 01/22/08

Loc: Sunnyvale, CA

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: Jared]
#2687985 - 10/08/08 08:38 PM

An update on this situation:

I just got the call. My 160ED is shipping in the next 2 weeks!

I also talked about mounts with some folks and another idea came up. Takahashi EM-400. This would be comparable (fairly close) with the AP900GTO I'm thinking of. Someone said I should consider the AP1200 but that's just too hefty for me to consider moving about.

Any input comparing the AP900 to the EM-400?

Post Extras:

Bill Cowles
MacGyver

Reged: 04/16/06

Loc: Utah

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: insinu8]
#2688235 - 10/08/08 11:11 PM Attachment (67 downloads)

The Celestron CGE is also a nice mount for a TEC 160.

Bill

Post Extras:

RAKing
Postmaster

Reged: 12/28/07

Loc: West of the D.C. Nebula

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: insinu8]
#2688761 - 10/09/08 09:55 AM Attachment (48 downloads)

Christopher,

Congrats on your impending new scope.

I'm sorry I came into this thread so late, but I had a nice adapter made for my Atlas mount that allows me to use the A-P 6 inch Portable Pier.

The folks who made my adapter (ATS) are out of business, but you could easily have one made by a good machine shop. The cost was about $250 - way under the cost of a new mount, etc.

On the A-P pier, that Atlas can easily carry your TEC 160.

Take care,

Ron

Post Extras:

NHRob
Post Laureate

Reged: 08/27/04

Loc: New Hampshire

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: RAKing]
#2688901 - 10/09/08 11:35 AM

Ron,
Do you still use the Atlas on the portable pier or have you downgraded to the GM8 in its place?

I am thinking of getting an AP portable pier ... 6", 48" high ... to try with my Unistar. I'm thinking it will be an upgrade in stability from the wood surveyor's tripod.

Rob

Post Extras:

RAKing
Postmaster

Reged: 12/28/07

Loc: West of the D.C. Nebula

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: NHRob]
#2689157 - 10/09/08 01:31 PM

Quote:

Do you still use the Atlas on the portable pier or have you downgraded to the GM8 in its place?

Rob,

I prefer to call it "downsizing", not a downgrade. The Losmandy is a superb piece of workmanship.

I still have the Atlas and it still works well, but my back has been acting up so I prefer the lighter GM-8 with the TV-102 or the I-M 703. Both mounts are super stable and super accurate.

I could not believe how much difference the pier made over the stock tripods. It was well worth the expense. BTW - it also breaks down and transports easily.

Ron

Post Extras:

EricCCD
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/14/04

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: RAKing]
#2689187 - 10/09/08 01:43 PM

FWIW,

It appears that ATS is reopening for business.

Eric

Post Extras:

LLEEGE
True Blue

Reged: 03/03/05

Loc: Cloud-chester,NY

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: insinu8]
#2689218 - 10/09/08 01:59 PM

Quote:

An update on this situation:

I just got the call. My 160ED is shipping in the next 2 weeks!

I also talked about mounts with some folks and another idea came up. Takahashi EM-400. This would be comparable (fairly close) with the AP900GTO I'm thinking of. Someone said I should consider the AP1200 but that's just too hefty for me to consider moving about.

Any input comparing the AP900 to the EM-400?

Tak makes fine mounts. The EM400 is going to be heavier then the 900. The EM400 will also require a 24v power source to get 500x slew speeds. The EM400 requires a computer or PDA for GOTO function. The EM400 includes 2 CW's. The EM400 is $500 cheaper. They both are spec'ed at +/-3.5". The EM400 includes the world class PA scope. It's a tough call, but I think the 900 is more portable.

Post Extras:

RAKing
Postmaster

Reged: 12/28/07

Loc: West of the D.C. Nebula

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: EricCCD]
#2689299 - 10/09/08 02:35 PM

Quote:

FWIW, It appears that ATS is reopening for business.

Eric,

Thanks. That is great news. ATS does nice work.

Ron

Post Extras:

insinu8
sage

Reged: 01/22/08

Loc: Sunnyvale, CA

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: RAKing]
#2690080 - 10/09/08 09:35 PM

Ron,

Wow, that's what I have been looking for. And now, thanks to Eric's news, I'll wait patiently until next week and then contact ATS to see if I can get a hold of one of those adapters. Maybe they could make one for my G-11 tripod?

Did they give you a part number? Any way to identify it so I could order one as well?

I had no idea the EM-400 was so, uh...complicated. Sounds like maybe I'll stick to my guns and wait for my pennies to keep breeding while I watch for that e-mail about the AP900GTO...of course, in the meanwhile, if I can get that ATS adapter for my Atlas and find a 48" tall AP portable pier, or get the G-11 tripod adapter instead .... well!

Post Extras:

RAKing
Postmaster

Reged: 12/28/07

Loc: West of the D.C. Nebula

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: insinu8]
#2690686 - 10/10/08 09:17 AM Attachment (46 downloads)

Quote:

Wow, that's what I have been looking for. And now, thanks to Eric's news, I'll wait patiently until next week and then contact ATS to see if I can get a hold of one of those adapters. Maybe they could make one for my G-11 tripod?

Did they give you a part number? Any way to identify it so I could order one as well?

Christopher.

It's a custom part and I'm sure they could turn it to fit any tripod you specify. If Stephan is still there, he should have the specs I sent. If not, PM me and I can get them to you.

My adapter is out on loan right now, but I can get it back and measure it. I've attached another photo and you can see it's not a difficult machining job. But ATM does a lot of extra work to make it light and fit well.

Take care and best of luck with your new scope.

Ron

Post Extras:

NHRob
Post Laureate

Reged: 08/27/04

Loc: New Hampshire

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: RAKing]
#2690980 - 10/10/08 12:06 PM

Ron,
Very nice adapter. Btw, what height pier are you using?
I am thinking of 48" high, 6" pier.

Rob

Post Extras:

RAKing
Postmaster

Reged: 12/28/07

Loc: West of the D.C. Nebula

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: NHRob]
#2691104 - 10/10/08 01:12 PM

Quote:

Btw, what height pier are you using?
I am thinking of 48" high, 6" pier.

My pier started as a 42 inch, but I trimmed it down to 40 inches for my TV-102. I like to sit down while I'm observing, plus I'm only 5'10" tall.

The 48 inch height sounds like a great starting spot for the longer refractors. You can trim a little off the height, but you have to be careful about the length of the braces. I had to move the eyebolts up a little in order to shorten mine.

Hope yours works well for you.

Ron

Post Extras:

EricCCD
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/14/04

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: insinu8]
#2691109 - 10/10/08 01:16 PM

Quote:

Wow, that's what I have been looking for. And now, thanks to Eric's news, I'll wait patiently until next week and then contact ATS to see if I can get a hold of one of those adapters. Maybe they could make one for my G-11 tripod?

Glad to be of help! I haven't used any of their products yet, but when I heard they closed I was still saddened at the loss of options. So I was glad to hear they're back in business!

Quote:

I had no idea the EM-400 was so, uh...complicated. Sounds like maybe I'll stick to my guns and wait for my pennies to keep breeding while I watch for that e-mail about the AP900GTO...

I don't know about complicated. I have opposite extremes (Tak EM200, AP 1200), so I kinda have a perspective on both

(assuming the setup for the EM200 and EM400 are similar. I'm pretty sure the AP1200 and 900 are similar as well):

Cables: less complicated with the Takahashi EM's: for me, it's power, hand controller, autoguider and computer (if I'm imaging). If visual, it's just power and hand controller. The cables are plug in. For the AP, it's twist/screw in, with a Y-cable from GTO box to the RA and Dec axis. Then power, hand controller, autoguider, computer.

Power? Takahashi provides an 110/220VAC-24V converter. More expensive, though.

GOTO: The AP runs circles around Tak here. No doubt about it.

Portability/luggability: The AP900's components are individually lighter (I believe) than my EM200! So with a bit more setup time I can have a bigger mount set up! The EM400's heaviest component still tops 40 pounds.

Overall, I'll agree with Luke that the AP900 is more portable than the EM400, but the setup time of the EM400 tops the AP900.

Still a tough call.

Eric

Post Extras:

insinu8
sage

Reged: 01/22/08

Loc: Sunnyvale, CA

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: EricCCD]
#2709345 - 10/20/08 06:37 PM

UPDATE:

Steve @ ATS is on the job! Looks like he'll be creating an adapter so I can use my Atlas on a 6" A-P pier. I'm going to order the pier today and hope it arrives around about the same time as the TEC and the adapter. Still no update on the TEC shipping

Does anyone think a 48" pier would be too tall for this OTA? I'm 5' 10" and I don't want to have to use a step ladder. I could get a 42" one, but I don't want to have to lie on the ground to look at things near zenith.

Post Extras:

RAKing
Postmaster

Reged: 12/28/07

Loc: West of the D.C. Nebula

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: insinu8]
#2709485 - 10/20/08 07:51 PM

Quote:

UPDATE:

Steve @ ATS is on the job! Looks like he'll be creating an adapter so I can use my Atlas on a 6" A-P pier. I'm going to order the pier today and hope it arrives around about the same time as the TEC and the adapter. Still no update on the TEC shipping

Does anyone think a 48" pier would be too tall for this OTA? I'm 5' 10" and I don't want to have to use a step ladder. I could get a 42" one, but I don't want to have to lie on the ground to look at things near zenith.

Glad to hear you're getting that adapter.

I think the 48 incher is probably best for the TEC. I use a 42 inch (actually cut down to 40 inches) for my TV-102 and that TEC is a monster by comparison.

Figure about 16 - 17 inches from the top of the pier to the scope saddle with your Atlas. You will most likely need a small step when the scope is near the horizon. I use a small plastic step and kick it next to the pier when I don't need it. But I can lower the seat on my Starbound chair enough to use it for objects at zenith. I used to crawl around on my knees looking at the stars when I was younger. Four operations later - I don't do that anymore.

Ron

Post Extras:

insinu8
sage

Reged: 01/22/08

Loc: Sunnyvale, CA

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: RAKing]
#2736542 - 11/05/08 03:09 PM

Hey Ron,

I got my 6x48" AP pier the other day. Jesus, it's bigger than I thought it'd be! I'm very impressed with the way it assembles and sits rock solid.

Now I'm just waiting for the ATS adapter (and the TEC) to try this out.

I've noticed you and I are starting to have a similar set of gear. Good choice on the XT10i!

Post Extras:

RAKing
Postmaster

Reged: 12/28/07

Loc: West of the D.C. Nebula

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: insinu8]
#2736607 - 11/05/08 04:00 PM

I bet that pier is big - your TEC 160 is going to be big, too.

I guess great minds think alike sometimes when it comes to astro equipment.

I wish I could handle something that big, but age and infirmaties are catching up to me and I'll have to let you travel that road without me.

Don't forget to post some pictures when you get this equipment all set up. I think it's going to be awesome.

Take care,

Ron

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Nebhunter
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/04/03

Loc: Frostbite Falls

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: insinu8]
#2750417 - 11/13/08 07:13 PM

One area of concern not mentioned here is the saddle - stock Vixen. The Tec uses Losmandy compatible D series. Are you going to use the stock Vixen and those skinny dovetails?

I upgraded my EQ6 with the ADM conversion to the Losmandy D. Huge difference with the conversion. It will hold my Tec 140 with field flattener, and a heavy Pentax 67 film camera hanging off the end of everything. An Orion F11 guidescope with ADM rings rides on top of that. Total weight is about 40 lbs, but the torque from the length of the this set up is significant. Visually - no problem without the camera and Orion. I can focus with some shakes, but it quickly settles out. I am, and have done astro work with this set up. It's not a happy marriage, but just barely works - for now.

Get that G11 tripod or pier, put the ADM saddle plate on it and it should work very well on the EQ6,

Post Extras:

insinu8
sage

Reged: 01/22/08

Loc: Sunnyvale, CA

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: Nebhunter]
#2751923 - 11/14/08 04:10 PM

It's funny you would mention this. I did contact ADM about getting a Losmandy D saddle for the Atlas and ended up getting their Dual saddle instead. You never know when you might want to swap OTA's on the fly. The Atlas is going onto the A-P pier once the adapter arrives (maybe next week!)

I also bought the same dual saddle for my DM-6. I like having choices

The DM-6 rides proudly on my G-11 tripod. What a beast!

My heavier OTA's all have Losmandy D dovetails now and the smaller, lighter ones still have the Vixens.

Post Extras:

Svezda
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 06/01/07

Loc: Texas

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: insinu8]
#2802451 - 12/13/08 05:02 AM

Quote:

UPDATE:

Steve @ ATS is on the job! Looks like he'll be creating an adapter so I can use my Atlas on a 6" A-P pier. I'm going to order the pier today and hope it arrives around about the same time as the TEC and the adapter. Still no update on the TEC shipping

Does anyone think a 48" pier would be too tall for this OTA? I'm 5' 10" and I don't want to have to use a step ladder. I could get a 42" one, but I don't want to have to lie on the ground to look at things near zenith.

If anything it is too short. I am also 5'-10" and have the exact same setup! TEC160ED, 48" ATS, AP900. It is great for almost all viewing but you will be on the ground for about 10% and on the very lowest setting on an observing chair with capability for ultra low positions like my Starbound for about 20%. I'd go with a 54" ATS pier if I could do it again, or maybe a 56-60" if they'd do a custom length. I may get an extension, in fact. It's not a big deal but whenever Jupiter gets way up in the sky again someday (will it ever get there?) I will need an extension since I spend hours motionless at the eyepiece observing Jupiter, especially, and it is exhausting if I can't get comfortable. You might need a stepladder with the 54" but only for super low altitude stuff only 5-10deg above the horizon. -Jason A.

Post Extras:

Yedgy
professor emeritus

Reged: 07/22/08

Loc: Phoenix, AZ, USA

Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: Svezda]
#2805469 - 12/14/08 08:14 PM

Wow, am I glad I found this thread! I've been looking for a stable field pier/adapter for my Atlas but haven't had much luck finding one until now--and at a reasonable price, no less! Now I just need to figure out what height is best for me.

Thanks, folks!

Tony

Post Extras:

insinu8
sage

Reged: 01/22/08

Loc: Sunnyvale, CA

UPDATE - Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: Yedgy]
#3032456 - 04/08/09 04:34 PM

I just completed assembly of the Atlas + AP 48" pier + ATS adapter. It took longer than expected due to some mis-communication between myself and ATS about the dimensions of the adapter (it had to be re-made).

Even so, there were some tweaks I had to make (one worked well, the other I'm not too happy about. That's what happens sometimes when you have "custom" work done)

While all of this was going on, I've been using my DM-6 + G-11 for the TEC and loving it. It's a solid mount and very easy to set-up and use. I admit, I haven't been using the sky commander I ordered with it (It's still in the box) but I've not felt it was necessary.

I DID, however, mount my NP127is onto the newly assembled Atlas+AP pier and took some pictures which I will post in the next day or two. It looks pretty nice so far!

Post Extras:

Mike Clemens
Frozen to Eyepiece

Reged: 11/26/05

Loc: Alaska, USA

UPDATE - Re: Mount for TEC160ED new

[Re: insinu8]
#3032907 - 04/08/09 08:36 PM

pictures

Post Extras:

insinu8
sage

Reged: 01/22/08

Loc: Sunnyvale, CA

Re: UPDATE - Re: Mount for [TEC160ED] - NP127is new

[Re: Mike Clemens]
#3043518 - 04/14/09 01:49 PM

Quote:

pictures

Ask, and ye shall recieve:

Yes, I know...it's not the TEC160ED...

I've been laid up sick for a couple of days and haven't had the energy to swap the OTA's on the mount/pier. But I will, and will post a pic of the lovely TEC+Atlas+Pier as soon as I'm not feeling so poorly.

Post Extras:

Mike Clemens
Frozen to Eyepiece

Reged: 11/26/05

Loc: Alaska, USA

Re: UPDATE - Re: Mount for [TEC160ED] - NP127is new

[Re: insinu8]
#3044075 - 04/14/09 07:09 PM

we'll let the TeleVue slide since yer sick : ) get well !

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