TECHNICAL TIPS Last updated: 28 February 2002

Reducing Optical Tube Assembly Play

Sent:	Wednesday, February 27, 2002 13:01:33
From:	wes.trimble@sympatico.ca (Bud & Cecily)
I thought I would try something a little different to rectify the play
between the OTA and the OTA supports. After tuning up the scope and
degreasing there was still a bit of play between these two items. I
removed the tube again and lined the support arms that fit against the
tube with industrial quality double sided carpet tape. Before reassembly
I drilled 1\8 inch holes side by side directly opposite the pivot points
[2 holes] on top and below approx half way in from where the tube fits
against the supports.

I opened them up neatly into slots, and after replacing the OTA [VERY
CAREFULLY] and bolting it down, I took an 18" black electricians wire
tie and threaded it into the holes so that the lock was at the bottom
and snugged it up good and firm. NO more play. The tube now goes where
you want it to go now all the give has been removed. Seems to work
great. The tie also holds	 the supports firmly against the forks so
it also removes any give in the fork arms.

Wes
Toronto, Canada

Go back to the Tech Tips page.

Go back to the ETX Home Page.