3 replies to this topic

[BKMaynard]

I had my lx200 off the wedge looking for some clues to some issues that are piling up. I had the mount laid down so the base could move freely when the clutch was loose and I felt some resistance in a couple of areas. Enough that the base would stop moving after giving it a gentle spin then let go. Not sure if that matters after the clutch is tightened. There doesn't seem to be any noise differences when the motor moves past these spots but it sure would explain why my tracking/autoguidng is plagued with the small bumps I'm seeing. If it does matter, I'd be looking at a major teardown of the mount that I'm not knowledgeable enough to do. Is this an issue or not?

[Couder]

Could be several things: dirt or some kind of debris where the base turns; bearings often act like that when bad (bumpy in 2 or 3 places when turning); or something bent that touches something else in places.

[Skywatchr]

I had my lx200 off the wedge looking for some clues to some issues that are piling up. I had the mount laid down so the base could move freely when the clutch was loose and I felt some resistance in a couple of areas. Enough that the base would stop moving after giving it a gentle spin then let go. Not sure if that matters after the clutch is tightened. There doesn't seem to be any noise differences when the motor moves past these spots but it sure would explain why my tracking/autoguidng is plagued with the small bumps I'm seeing. If it does matter, I'd be looking at a major teardown of the mount that I'm not knowledgeable enough to do. Is this an issue or not?

There is simply some drag with the clutch loose. The RA bearings very rarely have any trouble.  Yes, it is quite involved to remove the gears to clean and re-grease them.  Then adjust the worm clearances so the worm doesn't climb the wheel gear too far. If you're not mechanically inclined, the job is best left to someone that is.

[Skywatchr]

You have 2 threads with the same problem and only need one.