Hi Gavin,
Great report. Out of the box the LB's are a good scope, but as you've found out they do need some personal touches to make them work even better.
As Alex mentioned a shroud is a must. I also recommend a dew/light shield for the end of the tube. Since installing mine I haven't lost one night to dew (even at the wettest times)
The alt brake is a good idea, but..............it should only be used to steady the scope it will not balance it.
The scope needs to be balanced with weights first. On my 12" LB I use 2.5kg on the upper part of the lower tube and 1.25kg on the lower part of the same tube. This allows the scope to be balanced from horizontal to zenith, I then use the alt brake to steady it.
If you would like some images, I'll be happy to supply them or just go into the Lightbridge Mods thread.
There are other mods to carry out, stiffer springs, hand operated secondary & primary knobs and also blackening the inside of the end rings.
Or just powder coat (black) all the rings, $40.
But in the meantime, enjoy that big light bucket on the sky.
