EQ8 counter weight

[Flugel88 (Michael)]

Anyone have any ideas about what i could use to add some counterweight to my EQ8 mount?

I only need 2 or 3KG i have lifting weight in the shed but the central hole is to small.

The EQ8 has 31.5mm/1.24" shaft and sky watcher only sell 10KG weights i think

[tim.stephens (Tim)]

Big bag of fishing sinkers tied to the end works in a pinch. Not a viable long-term solution but good for testing and you can vary the weight very inexpensively. Get a proper weight when you know how much to add and where.

[brian nordstrom (As avatar)]

There is a 10kg weight in the classifieds for $100 right now .

You could always get it machined down and repaint it to say , 4-5kg it wont cost much as its cast iron , easy to machine would take 1/2 hour max .

Brian.

[bojan]

Cast it..plastic pot and concrete.

[The Mekon (John Briggs)]

Originally Posted by brian nordstrom

There is a 10kg weight in the classifieds for $100 right now .

You could always get it machined down and repaint it to say , 4-5kg it wont cost much as its cast iron , easy to machine would take 1/2 hour max .

Brian.

That's the OP's cwt! Clearly he needs more than one but not two, so machining is the way to go. Will be worth the cost once you consider the alternatives.

[Flugel88 (Michael)]

Interesting idea's thanks guys but i don't have the gear to machine steel or know anyone that does that sort of thing.

I was thinking i will try replacing the bottom shaft end stop with a normal bolt that is longer and would allow me to have a lifting weight at the end of shaft.

[DarkArts]

Losmandy makes a 7lb (3.2kg) weight with that centre bore dimension:
http://www.bintel.com.au/Mounts---Tr...oductview.aspx

I personally find that a bit expensive, but it'll work.