Sky-Watcher EQ8 User Manual
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7
Fig. 1.4
3.
Loosen the three knobs on the saddle alternately until the width of groove is slightly wider
than the width of the dovetail bar on the telescope.
4.
While holding the telescope horizontally, seat or slide the dovetail bar of the telescope to
the groove of the saddle. The pointing direction of the telescope should match the arrow
sign on the saddle
(Fig 1.4).
5.
Tighten the three knobs alternately to secure the dovetail bar in the groove.
Warning: Keep supporting the telescope until you are sure that it has been firmly at-
tached to the saddle.
PART I: SETTING UP THE EQ8 MOUNT
Once the counterweight and the telescope have been installed, the mount should be balanced
to reduce stress on the motor drive system, as well as to ensure smooth and accurate oper-
ation.
1.
Loosen the R.A. clutch and rotate the R.A. axis until the counterweight rod is parallel to the
ground. Tighten the R.A. clutch.
2.
Loosen the Dec. clutch and rotate the Dec. axis until the telescope is parallel to the ground.
Tighten the Dec. clutch.
3.
Loosen the thumb screws on the counterweights.
4.
Hold the counterweight rod with one hand, release the R.A. clutch and adjust the counter-
weights along the rod until the mount is able to remain stationary without support. Tighten
the thumb screws on the counterweights again.
5.
Rotate the R.A. axis; the mount should remain relatively balanced along different angles.
Once this is confirmed, return the mount to its original position described in Step 1 and
tighten the R.A. clutch again.
6.
Hold the telescope with one hand and release the Dec. clutch.
7.
Slowly let go of the telescope and check for any rotational movements. If there is a
movement, slide the dovetail bar in the saddle to find a balancing position at which the
telescope can remain stationary without support.
1.5 Balancing the Mount
2.
Release the Dec. clutch knob
(Fig 1.4)
and rotate the Dec. axis until the three knobs on
the saddle are facing upward and the dovetail groove is leveled
(Fig 1.4)
. Tighten the
Dec. clutch again.
R.A. Clutch
Saddle
Dec. Clutch
Arrow Sign