Most instructions I see for balancing a GEM show the DEC balanced horizontally.
But the DEC can be unbalanced along the vertical axis. The focuser adds weight to one side.
For me to balance the OTA vertically in DEC I need to add counterweights opposite the focuser side.
I see a lot of pictures AP set-ups that don't have counterweights opposite the focuser side.
I am curious if people balance in DEC in both the horizontal and the vertical position.
Also, do people balance the RA first or the DEC first? I have seen it recommended both ways.