Spare parts/service for Skywatcher Goto Dobsonian

[von Tom]

I normally "live" on the Solar System imaging forum ;) but I have an issue with my stock 12" Skywatcher Goto Dobsonian that I have used extensively for planet imaging with a Canon EOS 600D, and I am seeking some advice :)

Ever since I attempted repair of the 12V DC power socket which broke off the main circuit board after being knocked, the altitude motor will not change speed - preferring instead to operate at high speed with no dampening, no matter what the controller speed is set to (ie 1 to 9). The azimuth control/motor works fine. The telescope will neither automatically track correctly nor will it let me do fine altitude control.

The altitude control worked fine after the bump so I think I have stuffed up the circuit board somewhere (probably short circuited).

I am looking at two options - either obtain a replacement board or send the telescope or part in for repair.

Does anyone here have experience in getting parts like this, or have a favoured repair place based in Brisbane?

Cheers,
Tom

[Tony_]

Hello Tom,

If the socket short circuited - it would more likely cause a short circuit to the power supply - not to the circuit board. You may have damaged a component or more likely, cracked one of the solder/wire joints - if you knocked it hard enough. If you inspect all the solder points you will be able to see if one is cracked. If that is the case it is a simple repair.

Regards,
Tony.

[Shark Bait]

I had to replace a circuit board under the altitude cover due to a faulty connection with the hand controller cable. It had an intermittent fault from new that caused the controller to reset if it was moved from the holder. I purchased my telescope from Sirius Optics and Ron took care of the warranty claim. When the part arrived, I returned with the scope and he replaced the circuit board on the shop floor and we then tested the scope to make sure all was well. Great service as usual from Ron.

So, from my experience replacement boards can be obtained if there is little hope of fixing the existing unit. It should be a simple matter of contacting Sirius Optics (or another Sky Watcher dealer) and ordering the correct board.

[von Tom]

Thanks guys. Tony I'll have a closer look see. Stu, if that yields nothing I might go that way with Sirius - sounds like the same board.

Cheers,

Tom