Installing castors on dob?

[Dibbadobba]

Hey guys,

I'm just thinking about installing some lockable castors on m 10" gso dobsonian just I make it easier to move around.

Just wasn't sure if 3 or 4 wheels would be better. I'm worried 4 could increase wobble if there is unevenness on the ground but is 3 stable enough?

[asimov]

Yeah, 3 would be better in this case but then, we have the weight spread out over 3 to worry about...More would be better for the weight aspect..:confuse3:

[DavidU]

I have 3 and it's stable. I fitted ball rollers as it is better on grass.

http://images.rockler.com/rockler/images/32700-02-200.jpg

[mental4astro]

Yes, castors can be a good idea, BUT USE ONLY 3!

Use 4, & you are introducing a potential rock incase where you set up the scope isn't even. Weight distribution isn't a concern - just make sure that the castors you select are rated each at no less than the weight of the scope + mount.

What is more important for distribution is the placement of the castors. If the azimuth bearing uses Teflon pads, place the castors under the pads. This will prove most stable for the mount. If your az. bearing is a Lazy Susan type, place the castors at the same radius as far from centre as possible, 120deg wide to each other.

Mental

[Dibbadobba]

Thanks for the reply guys.

Three it is. I saw some castors at bunnings that look quite sturdy. I'll see what's around before making my purchase.


Also Alex, I just realised I had met you at Bathurst a few months ago (Ildo's farm!) hope your well mate! Small small world.

Your 17.5" telescope was what made me sell my 80mm refractor and buy the 10" dob!!!

[mental4astro]

Frank! Ha! What a small world! Great to hear from you again.

So, the old aperture fever has bitten hard, eh! :lol:

Upto a 10" dob. Nice. I still have my 10" dob that I also built myself. Love it to bits. When in the stowed configuration it comes up to your knee in height. I take it with me when I've got the whole family in the car on long trips and space allows, :) . I've attached a couple of pics.

I hope to get out to Ildo's this coming spring or summer. Might bring a smaller scope next time rather than the 17.5". Even might just be my 100mm refractor just for fantastic wide field viewing. Sometimes the almighty aperture isn't the best tool for the job. Binos or a fast refractor is king is wide rich fields.

[Dibbadobba]

Yes!definitely has bitten. I always wanted a big scope...I just can't wait to take it to a dark site!

It's amazing how you run into people sometimes! Hopefully I'll be able to get there too! Such a nice place!

You have a very nice dob(s). Your obviously quite capable of making these things!

Anyhow take care, I'm sure ill run into you again soon!