Hi Bill,
Here is a link to explain the use of the date circle.
http://www.skywatchertelescope.net/s...AL_EQ3and5.pdf
My EQ3 (which is very much the same) shipped new with the RA Ring very loose. I cut a strip of thin Aluminium sheet to make a sleeve and slipped in between the RA shaft and the ring, with the addition of a bit of the ubiquitous vaseline. Needs to be snug enough for the ring to move in RA but can be adjusted by hand. 3 years down the track so far so good
Vinnie