Meade 5000 80ED Triplet APO replace Crawford focuser

[yoda776 (Matt)]

Hi everyone,

I am after some advice and where to find a dual speed focuser for the scope in the title. I have checked ebay and Williams optics but all they seem to list is a synta mount and do not list the meade 5000apo in the list . I can't really afford to buy one only to find out the option does not work.

The reason I wish to replace the focuser as it is single speed, otherwise a brilliant scope.

Are there any options people know will definitely work? I have a Williams optics set dual speed focuser and that is great. If there is a version for this apo model I would be glad to know where to grab one. Also rough cost or if anyone has one.

Cheers,
Matt

[MattT]

The only thing you need to do is measure the internal size of the OTA tube.
Probably 86mm at a guess. GSO, FT, Moonlite etc all make focusers with flanges that size so it's take your pick…how much do you want to spend?
Matt

[yoda776 (Matt)]

No more than the Williams optics I can get from the U.S. $250, if possible. Balance of good quality and good price. Although if there is a great match in the optics / accessories I would rather make sure I grabbed something that is compatible.

I will check the options you have provided.

[LewisM]

The Meade is just a rebadged NorthGroup, which is sold under various names, most commonly Explore Scientific which is EXTREMELLY common in the USA so many choices of aftermarket focuser. Moonlite definitely make one, but its outside the 250 budget

[yoda776 (Matt)]

Ok, then I guess hit me with the options that are available. What would be the best one to grab?

[yoda776 (Matt)]

I just may have to save more for a more expensive option, that's all. They say patience is a virtue!

[peter_4059 (Peter)]

I've got a Moonlite on mine. Very happy with it. You need to ensure you get the right flange size as Meade made two different size threads for this scope. The early models had a slightly larger thread on the tube than the later ones. Moonlite originally supplied a flange with the smaller thread then send me a new flange at no cost when the original one didn't fit. Great service.

[yoda776 (Matt)]

Thanks Peter. I will check the size and consider the make of focuser you have suggested. Scope is great, just need the fine focusing.

[peter_4059 (Peter)]

You won't be disapointed. Moonlite make excellent gear and their service is second to none IMHO

[raymo]

I just got an electric focuser; don't have to touch the scope at all, and
MUCH cheaper.
raymo

[yoda776 (Matt)]

An electric focuser? Sounds interesting although at a dark site it's another item you have find power for or does it run off batteries? Batteries have not been reliable in the past for me unless it is something like lithium polymer. AAs are not great.

May I ask what brand and model your focuser is?

I would prefer a focuser that is 10:1. Looking at Moonlite for now.

Thanks for the replies.

[peter_4059 (Peter)]

The blue one matches the other trim on the Meade ED80

[raymo]

The electric focuser runs for ages off of an internal 9v battery. It is fine
for using with a DSLR and a filter wheel, but would struggle a bit with a heavier load. It's a little bit slow when making very large changes in focus. Can make extremely fine focus adjustments when set to slowest speed. I had to spend the huge amount of $5 for a small on/off switch, and invest 1/2hr on installing it. [it drains the battery even when
turned off, otherwise]. It's made for Skywatcher Newts and fracs, but could easily be made to fit most conventional focusers, comes with two different mounting brackets. About $85-90 from Bintel, if I remember
rightly.
raymo

[yoda776 (Matt)]

Matching colour does help with the aesthetics / look of the scope altogether I agree

Originally Posted by peter_4059

The blue one matches the other trim on the Meade ED80

[yoda776 (Matt)]

Depends on how I go as I have only started looking into astrophotography this year, but have been talking and learning from local state astronomical society. DSLR and filter wheel would be about where I am at as well. Worth me doing some research in this area. Thanks raymo for the info.

Originally Posted by raymo

The electric focuser runs for ages off of an internal 9v battery. It is fine
for using with a DSLR and a filter wheel, but would struggle a bit with a heavier load. It's a little bit slow when making very large changes in focus. Can make extremely fine focus adjustments when set to slowest speed. I had to spend the huge amount of $5 for a small on/off switch, and invest 1/2hr on installing it. [it drains the battery even when
turned off, otherwise]. It's made for Skywatcher Newts and fracs, but could easily be made to fit most conventional focusers, comes with two different mounting brackets. About $85-90 from Bintel, if I remember
rightly.
raymo