9 replies to this topic

[Mike565]

Hello,

 

I am attempting to completely de-fork my Meade LX600 12" scope.  It all seemed pretty straight forward until I got to the last 2 screws (see pic - there is one on each DEC arm).  It looks like a standard Allen wrench head.  It's not reachable due to the hub of the arm.  I tried cutting the short end of an Allen wrench to fit between the OTA and the arm.  But the screw doesn't budge and there is no leverage.   I was considering taking my Dremel tool to slice a horizontal cut in the screw to try and use a flat head screwdriver to try and get more leverage.   But before I get drastic, I was wondering if anyone else has done this and if there is some trick, that I am missing...

 

  

[nitsky]

Hey Mike....

Try using a hex bit, and using a box wrench on it.

Works for me in really limited spaces.

Nitsky

[nitsky]

.....SORRY, I hung up too fast....

I believe there's always a PLAN B....

 

Perhaps a pair of needle nose vise grips?

Nitsky

[WaveGuide]

This is what I'd try first. Shorten (grind off) the Allen wrench so it will fit in the small space behind the Dec hub.  I honestly doubt there's an easier way without making a mess of it.

 

- Jack T (UK)

[Steve_uk]

Hi,

 

On my Meade with stubborn hex screws, I had to dremel a slot to get in a flat blade. Also use some tape to protect the tube as it comes out else it gets scratched.

 

Interestingly, what are you doing with the old mount, I am in need of some parts ;-)

 

 

Edited by Steve_uk, 11 February 2025 - 10:58 AM.

[carolinaskies]

I use the ball-head allen head wrenches, they are made for these type situations. 

[fullthrottle_man]

I use the ball-head allen head wrenches, they are made for these type situations.

This. I'm a mechanic by trade and this is the right answer.

[Mike565]

Thank you all for your suggestions.  I went the route of a hack saw blade to score a slot (I couldn't even get the Dremel tool in there).   It did put a few minor paint scratches on the fork arms.   BUT ITS DONE

 

As for the components, I was going to try and sell them (Base, arm assemblies, Starlock assembly, handset, and even the Super Wedge). 

 

Full disclosure:

I recently lost GPS on the mount.  after taking the OTA off the mount I replaced the battery and turned on the mount, with the arms connected but I still get "No GPS Signal" error.   Also, the RA gears make a ticking/knocking sound at MAX and near MAX slewing, not sure if that has any impact on guide speed.  I visually looked at the assembly as it was running but don't see anything obvious.

[Steve_uk]

Hi Mike,

 

Asking about your mount, sent you a PM :-)

 

Steve.

[JML]

Do you have a wedge for the 12” lx600 for sale?