Bintel Low Profile Focuser

[kljucd1]

Hi,

I have bought a low profile focuser for my 8" dob. Is there anything that I should keep in mind before trying to install. I notice that the base of the focuser is smaller than the standard one, therefore I will have to drill some more holes.

Anyone had any problems when installing that they want to share?

Thanks.

Daniel...

[kljucd1]

Hi,

Actually I have another 2 questions, for those who have bought the Bintel Low Profile Focuser.

1. Did installation instructions come with yours?

2. Did the screws to attach it to the OTA come with it, or are they an 'optional extra'?

Let me know

Thanks

Daniel...

[Omaroo]

No, and no Daniel.

You get the focuser in a nice black cardboard box - protected in a cut-out foam block. No screws. No instructions - what do you need instruction on? I suppose how to adjust the tensioners? You should be OK as they're pretty self-explanatory. :)

[kljucd1]

Hi,

Thanks for the response.

It's just that I have never done this before and the hole on the OTA is much bigger than the new focuser requires. The screw holes need to be redone and so before I get the drill out, I want to make sure I only have to drill them once.

Regards

Daniel...

[Omaroo]

OK - here's a head start. I've just measured the hole spacings on one of my two sets.

Horizontal spacing (across the unit, on the same axis as the focuser spindles) is 70mm.

Vertical spacing (with the OTA horizontal) is 73mm.

They are made for the 8" Newtonian you have. The curvature of the base plate is exactly right for these units.

Why did you go for the low-profile? You'll need a couple of reasonably long (total of 50mm or so) extension tubes just to reach focus now...

[kljucd1]

Hi,

Cool, thanks for the measurements. I guess I will just try to line it up as good as I can.

I got the new focuser so I can do prime focus astrophotograhy (apparently it can sometimes save you from chopping the end of the OTA). The other thing with this is that it has the 10:1 gears, which I need.

I also bought a 35mm extension tube, so that part is taken care of.

Thanks again

Daniel...

[Omaroo]

It'll be interesting to see if the low profile prevents you from having to move the mirror up the tube at all. Good luck with it!:thumbsup:

[madtuna]

not trying to hijack the thread but Chris you seem rather knowledgeable in this department and it may also relate to the topic at hand.

I have an old TAL -1M 1996 vintage with the focuser that takes the push in EP's. This limits me to using the TAL EP's as there is not enough down focus using my standard EP's

I was wondering if I change to an aftermarket focuser will that save me having to move the mirror up the tube?

cheers!

[Omaroo]

Hey there Steve :)

Hmmm.. I'm not at all familiar with the TAL. If you like, and if you come along to a viewing night at MAS I'll bring one along and we can find out! You will certainly pick up in-focus in comparison to using a normal height aftermarket focuser.

Do these specs help you?

Low Profile Focuser body is 32mm tall
Racked in height: 52mm from base of the focuser block to the top of the Drawtube (without 1.25" adapter installed).
Drawtube travel: 37mm

[madtuna]

tah mate! I'll take some measurements.

I'm aiming for the Forest on the 9th:)

[kljucd1]

Hi,

Well it seems to work, I mean I have some skills I need to acquire but so far so good.

See the link: http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=28221

Regards

Daniel...