10 replies to this topic

[Minstfarlig]

I want to attach a motor kit to my EQ-5 mount clone (Specifically the EQStarPro kit). If I turn the RA knob the axis starts turning as soon as the knob is turned. But if I turn the DEC knob, the axis only starts turning after i rotate the knob 30 - 40 degrees. I feel like this would be a problem for the motors, especially if you use them for DSO imaging and guiding. I am wondering if I can fix this or if I need to purchase a new mount.

 

Image of my mount:

 

Attached Thumbnails

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[bignerdguy]

Sounds to me like the Dec axis needs a tear down and rebuilt with new grease on all bearings and check to see if the worm gear is stripped or if it needs tightening.  When was the last time you performed maintenance on this mount?  How long have you had this mount?

[bignerdguy]

Here is a good video for how to do the maintenance in two parts.

 

Part 1:

 

https://www.youtube....h?v=IfW_Wrq2K-M

 

Part 2:

 

https://www.youtube....h?v=dmLv053PbxU

[Minstfarlig]

Sounds to me like the Dec axis needs a tear down and rebuilt with new grease on all bearings and check to see if the worm gear is stripped or if it needs tightening.  When was the last time you performed maintenance on this mount?  How long have you had this mount?

I have only had this mount for a few months due to the fact that it is bought used. I am yet to identify this mount. I am pretty new to this hobby. The seller said that he had purchased it 20 years ago. He only used the scope a few times.

[Chris Johnson]

This link will show you how to adjust the declination and polar axis worm gears.

 

 http://astronomyboy.com/cg5/

[bignerdguy]

I have only had this mount for a few months due to the fact that it is bought used. I am yet to identify this mount. I am pretty new to this hobby. The seller said that he had purchased it 20 years ago. He only used the scope a few times.

Well it sounds like it is time to perform a maintenance on it then.  chances are there is either an issue with the worm gear or it is too loose and needs adjusting.  either way regreasing may also be needed by this point for smooth operation.  We all have to do it sometime to a mount as they wear down after a time.  Trick is to keep the maintenance up to date to forestall the wear.

[Cliff Hipsher]

Except for the paint job and lack of electronics this looks exactly like my LXD75.

[Minstfarlig]

Except for the paint job and lack of electronics this looks exactly like my LXD75.

Could you provide a picture of your mount?

[Cliff Hipsher]

[Minstfarlig]

2080 on LXD75.jpg

I personally can see quite alot of differences, like the position of the RA locking knob and DEC axis.

[bignerdguy]

I personally can see quite a lot of differences, like the position of the RA locking knob and DEC axis.

Yeah you do have the EQ-5 like you thought.  The LXD-75 and EQ5 do look a lot alike but there are definitely differences.