Quote:
Originally Posted by iceman
Hi guys
Just wondering which is the best/preferred method for taking the scope off/putting in on the EQ mount..
The 12" is huge, and while I haven't finished setting it up etc, when I put the scope on the rings and tied the straps to keep it on, I had to move it around a bit to get it balanced.
When I took the scope off, I left the scope in the rings (attached), and undid the dovetail bar and took the scope off that way, so that when I put it back on, I just need to put the dovetail bar back in the centre of the mount, do it up, and it's balanced and ready to go again.
What do you do?
Is that a good or bad idea?
I can tell you it's quite tricky doing it by yourself with such a big, heavy scope - whichever way I do it.
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Mike,
not sure what system you have in respect of the dovetail rail and saddle, but if I gave any advice, it is go the "D" series Losmandy style. Either buy or get made a Losmandy style saddle, and go from there. The rails are about 4" wide, and beefy enough for just about anything.
With my 10" I normally leave the rings on the tube, and carry the complete scope and rings as one piece.
I sometimes have the tube in the dob mount, and when I do I normally have the mount in place, and then attach the rings first, then the tube. This is the easiest method, and given the weight of your 12" this may be the safest method. OK, it is perhaps another trip, but if it helps your back, and the longevity of your scope (means you don't drop it), then so be it.
I also I remove the C/W's from the mount when I carry it. Maybe when I use the rolling pier, then yes, I leave all together, but still I don't roll it with the OTA in place.
Gary