12 replies to this topic

[LindAstronomer]

After finally figuring out how to remove the clamshell from my vintage SV85S, I measured the tube for mounting rings. I just want to make sure my calculations are correct and confirm the size of rings needed.

 

The circumference of the tube is 11.125 inches or 285mm, both measured. So to get the diameter of the tube, I divided each number by 3.14 9 (Pi) and got 3.54 inches (89.92mm by conversion) or 90.76mm by calculation. So I would need 90mm rings. Right?

Math was never my strong point.

[Scott in NC]

Your math looks good, Linda. Unfortunately it doesn’t look like Stellarvue sells rings for their 80-90mm refractors anymore, or at least I couldn't find them on their website. 

[Scott in NC]

If you don’t mind silver instead of black, Astro Hutech sells the More Blue brand of 90mm rings. I have a larger pair on a 130mm refractor of mine and really like them. I find the color quite attractive, and the fit and finish is excellent.

 

https://astrohutech....ings-90mm-pair/

[Scott in NC]

Or if you want to jazz it up a little with red, Prima Luce Labs makes a nice set of 90mm rings. These are a bit pricier though.

 

https://www.primaluc...port-rings.html

[Scott in NC]

If you really want black, here are some William Optics branded rings, sold by Agena Astro.  I don’t think they look as robust as the other two brands though, and you may not necessarily want a WO logo on your SV scope. 
 

https://agenaastro.c...ting-rings.html

 

Anyway, just thought I’d point out a few options.

[LindAstronomer]

Scott,

 

Thanks for checking my math and your thoughts.
 

Yeah, checked Stellarvue too. Bummer. But then again Vic doesn't sell 85mm scopes anymore.  I have More Blue rings on my Tak FC100-D and like them a lot, and am thinking I will get a 90mm set for the SV85S. Call me an astro-fastinista!

 

Best regards,

LindA

[Scott in NC]

Linda, I think you’re really going to like the More Blue rings on that fantastic SV85S of yours. I only have one set on a 130mm scope of mine, and they look like this.

 

[LindAstronomer]

Nice, Scott!

 

I ordered More Blue rings and a dovetail plate a little while ago. Can’t wait to get them. I think they will look marvelous on the SV85S!

 

Appreciate your sharing! And I love to see pics of different scopes.

 

Regards, 

LindA

[LindAstronomer]

Linda, I think you’re really going to like the More Blue rings on that fantastic SV85S of yours. I only have one set on a 130mm scope of mine, and they look like this.

 

IMG_4351.jpeg

Scott,

 

Got brave today, removed the SV85S’s focuser and slid that clamshell right off! Put the focuser back on and decorated that little scope with brand new More Blue rings and a Losmandy dovetail plate. Looks like a new scope.

 

Easier to do than I ever thought it would be. Certainly appreciate your help and insight. Got words of encouragement from Don too.

 

LindA 

Edited by LindAstronomer, 09 March 2024 - 07:04 PM.

[Gehring9006]

Hi LindA - Your set-up looks great! I have a SV85L with a clamshell which constantly slides no matter how much I tighten the clamshell. I have used painters tape on my OTA to keep it from sliding! So I'm thinking going to do the same thing with my first "real" telescope.  Just checking to see if you have any additional advice in hindsight?

Edited by Gehring9006, 22 March 2025 - 10:13 AM.

[Scott in NC]

Hi LindA - Your set-up looks great! I have a SV85L with a clamshell which constantly slides no matter how much I tighten the clamshell. I have used painters tape on my OTA to keep it from sliding! So I'm thinking going to do the same thing with my first "real" telescope.  Just checking to see if you have any additional advice in hindsight?

Just add some adhesive felt (which you can get from a craft store) to the inside of the clamshell or rings. I’ve done this with multiple scopes.

[LindAstronomer]

Just add some adhesive felt (which you can get from a craft store) to the inside of the clamshell or rings. I’ve done this with multiple scopes.

Thanks, Scott, for passing that information along. - LindA

[LindAstronomer]

Hi LindA - Your set-up looks great! I have a SV85L with a clamshell which constantly slides no matter how much I tighten the clamshell. I have used painters tape on my OTA to keep it from sliding! So I'm thinking going to do the same thing with my first "real" telescope.  Just checking to see if you have any additional advice in hindsight?

Thank you. I really didn’t like the clamshell that came with the SV85S, but changing to rings was daunting until I took that little scope apart and did it. Glad I did!

 

-LindA