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Part two of this upgrade is to replace one of the focuser knobs with a WO 2-speed microfocuser which has a 10:1 ratio (really about 10.5:1, but who's counting?). This allows fine focus, and is probably only important if you are imaging, but is a cheap add on to the package (and I guess you always think about resale value). The fit and finish is typical of WO, i.e. excellent, although the finish this time is matt rather than glossy.
Once again, the process is pretty easy. William Optics website have a set of instruction on their website that you can download as a PDF (look in Manuals, under Support), and there is a helpful article on Cloudy Nights. I won't repeat all that stuff here. Just make sure you read everything carefully, and take your time. And have a clean, well-lit work area.
One thing I will mention, though, is that removing the tension screw (Allen key) was surprisingly very difficult, and when it came to the point where I was meant to insert the new, longer tensioning screw into the same hole, it wouldn't go in. I think the original screw had been cross threaded. This was a crucial event, and I was looking at having to send the telescope's focuser back to Taiwan to have it fixed. Fortunately a friend was able to re-tap the hole for me and the problem is now solved. (Thanks Joseph!)
The other thing I will mention is the excellent communication and customer service from William Optics. I sent them quite a few emails and these were always answered promptly. The information I was given was always accurate, to the point, and politely presented. And their mail service must be the fastest on the planet. Only three-four days to get to Hobart. (Once for the lens, once for the microfocuser. I ordered them separately. Don't ask. But note, WO didn't make me pay extra.)
Oh, and the 2-speed focuser works just as advertized.
On a different note, this upgrade has been for me almost cost-neutral. This modular approach to parts has allowed me to upgrade my scope with very little financial loss compared to buying a new fluorite doublet. Any other brand of scope would have meant selling what I have at a substantial loss and buying better at the new price - a substantial change-over cost. And I still have a nice SD 80 mm lens to do something with if I want. (Maybe buy someone else's and make some excellent binoculars!)
To me, it seems as though WO are always innovating, always trying to anticipate the market, always looking to satisfy a customer's emerging wants and needs.
You've just got to love that.
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