Quote:
Originally Posted by Kunama
Thanks Les, that looks much more stable. I am going to make a spreader from 16mm square aluminium bar and also reinforce the lower tube sections first. I also have a spare Berlebach Planet adapter minus the legs so a set of Tas Oak legs might be in order.  |
I love building as you do. I suspect tho the mechanical advantage of making your own will be far outweighed by the cost compared to a second hand Meade GFT which people sell online for almost nothing. For refractors they're brilliant...the degree of leg extension gives incredible height and convenience for zenithal viewing.
The chain is stainless steel and obtainable cheaply locally as are the attachments. I welded an eye bolt to the spreader handle of the GFT and a SS eyebolt is bolted through the central hole of the spreader centre disc. Couldn't have cost me more than $30??
Of course if other intangibles such as builders satisfaction (with which your are rich) are at play you may prefer your own idea.
Castor wheels optional...
I also modified the SW tripod. Give me a few minutes and I'll post pics of mods...