[darrellx (Darrell)]

Hi all

I actually have no problem at the moment, but I have a few questions just for clarification on mounts. Specifically Payloads.

I have an EQ5 GoTo, and depending on which site I go to, and which manual I read, the payload is reported as either 10kgs or 9kgs.

I also have a skywatcher 8inch reflector. The manual reports the "tube weight" as 7.98kgs This works with two counterweights that each weigh 5.1kgs.

So if I do the sums, the total weight is just over 18kgs (excluding the dovetail, rings, and eyepiece).

The whole system works well. It seems stable enough - except in windy weather. The tracking is okay, but not brilliant. This is probably more of a reflection on me and my alignment than the mount.

Am I misinterpreting some of the terms like "mount payload" or "tube weight"? How can my EQ5 (with a limit of 10kgs), carry over 18kgs? When reference is made to "tube weight" is that just the OTA?

I am at the point of considering a "bigger and better" mount - maybe the EQ6Pro. I want to make sure I get all the sums right.

Thanks
Darrell