[davewaldo]

Hi Everyone,

I thought others might like to see some of the modifications I've been making to my Skywatcher 8" Newtonian.

I plan to use this scope for imaging so I needed to change the focuser, update the collimation system and mount a guidescope.

Focuser.
I didn't have the funds for a nice new 10:1 focuser however I do have a William optics SCT focuser which has been delightful to use on my SCT.
I came up with a way of mounting the focuser and had a new adapter plate made by a local engineering place for only $60!

The first pics show the new adapter compared to the old one.

I had to drill a few holes and tap threads into them so the adapter could sit on a 6 bolt collimation system to aid in aligning the focuser.

Once this was all ready I painted the internal areas and put it all together.

The focuser operates wonderfully and should make focusing and composing shots much easier. Also, its only a 5min job to remove the focuser and place it back on my SCT if needed.

The other two mods were a little more straight forward.

Collimation.
For the collimation system I swapped the screws for nice knobs, and I had to drill and tap new holes for the locking bolts due to clearance issues around the new knobs. I also installed nice strong springs which helps no end. This scope didn't have springs at all to start with. My plan is to mount a fan on the rear cover too

Guidescope.
For my giudescope I decided I didn't want the scope sitting on top in the usual position as I think this puts extra weight high away from the centre of gravity. Also I thought it would be great if the guidescope could sit diagonally opposite the focuser as to balance the weight of cameras etc.
So I drilled and tapped more holes to allow the dovetail to attach to the rings in this new position. My giudescope only has about 1 inch of clearance as the mount moves around but it seems much more sturdy / balanced.

Well thats all of them.... I'm quite proud of how its all coming together. I enjoy making things work with very little money invested .

Any comments or further sugestions most welcome!

Cheers,

Dave.