iOptron IEQ45

[baileys2611]

Don't curse if you missed out on Willik's IEQ45, here's another one! I would like to sell my IEQ45 in order to upgrade to a mount that will handle a larger capacity (anyone selling one?). This has a modified dec clutch for easy release and will take a weight capacity of 45lbs without weights.

I purchased the mount second hand from these forums about 6 months ago and have used it on my pier in my obs, it is in excellent condition. The two weights have small marks, but other than that it is in perfect working order. I've purchased in addition to the mount:

* A mini pier riser from the US (http://www.ioptron.com/index.cfm?select=productdetails&phid=cf1ba874-4bdc-4c9e-b956-18bfa9e5a5cb)
* iOptron ST-4 autoguider adapter (the mount comes with an ST4 compatible port anyway, but this just adds flexibility to your options) (http://www.optcorp.com/product.aspx?pid=17439&kw=ioptron&st=2)
* Counterweight extension shaft (http://www.optcorp.com/product.aspx?pid=16160&kw=ioptron&st=2)

Includes 12 volt lighter power cable, power adapter, serial cable, cable to go from the on-board computer to dec clutch, polar scope built-in, illuminated reticule cable (fits the polar scope but can be used to put into other eyepieces), tripod, Go2Nova® 8407 controller with Advanced GOTONOVA® GoTo Technology (with hand warmer, no really...A HAND WARMER!!)

This is a fantastic performer, full of excellent features like quick polar alignment assist (I used that, it was excellent), balance assist, GPS, Goto, PEC, Gap-free structure for both R.A. and declination worms which are mounted in a way that means they compensate for temperature and can be disengaged rapidly without damaging or burring the worm gears (watch your balance though), RS232 port for mount firmware upgrade and ASCOM control, fits with both Vixen and Losmandy-type mounting plates, 2 inch heavy-duty stainless steel tripod legs.

The manual is readily available from the net, it's too large to attach here. Photos to come (generic one attached from Willik's ad).

$1600 INC shipping in Australia, negotiable. Price down to $1400 to make it a little more attractive (still negotiable!)

[baileys2611]

Here are some true life pictures. I inspected it all and noticed some paint chipping near the base where it bolts on to the pier, not much but important to tell all the details. There's also a flake of chrome that has come off the extension bar, again - cosmetic, but important to note.

[baileys2611]

I've reduced my asking price because I'd like to get this sold - but I'm still open to suggestions or negotiation.

[parryg]

I was wondering what the warranty status of this unit is .. given it will now be at least third hand ?

I am currently on the fence so to speak about purchasing one of these units second/third hand rather than new through a dealership.

[Starcrazzy]

Would you say this mount is comparable to an eq5 or eq6?

[baileys2611]

Parry: This is not under warranty, it's as is - sorry. In the reading I've done over recent times a new mount actually requires some 'wearing in' as the worm drives settle down over time after machining, but that's opinion and I'm sure others will find opinions to the opposite.

Starcrazzy: This is more comparable to an EQ6 than a 5. The 5 won't hold near this capacity whereas the 6 pro will come close. I've owned an HEQ5 Pro and upgraded to this, I had the choice between an Eq6 and iOptron. I chose this because it has a slightly higher load bearing capacity. While it doesn't have an EQMOD driver (eq6 does), it does have ASCOM so software choice has not been an issue.

[torsion]

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