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Old 13-12-2010, 11:46 AM
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bojan
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Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: Mt Waverley, VIC
Posts: 7,112
I replaced the original bolts with M10 high-tensile screws (with machined ends.. also I have new threads for them in the mount as well).
Now I need a spanner to adjust it, but usually this is not necessary, as I also have a high sensitivity bubble level (glued on top of the original one).
The only thing I have to do now (when/if I am out of my own backyard) is to level it and adjust the South-North direction.
In my backyard, I have 3 concrete slabs (one for each tripod leg) with a hole in them, where the tripod pin sits in.
Proper lubrication of screws also helps a lot.

Ideally, the threads should be replaced with steel threaded bushings, to prolong the life of the thread, if it is to be adjusted very often.

Recently I found this link, it addresses some of the issues:
http://stargazerslounge.com/diy-astr...ment-bolt.html

Last edited by bojan; 13-12-2010 at 12:16 PM.
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