Focus Sticky

[Shaun]

When i try to focus i find it is sticking a bit, should i put some oil on it or what to do, it is rack and pinion?

[astronut (John)]

Shaun,
With the focuser sticking, the best thing would be to pull it apart and remove all the old grease. This will be causing the problem.
Don't just replace with any old lubricant, the reason behind this is that certain lubricants will either melt in the heat or bind the focuser when cold.
I use "Superlube" this was recommended to me by Don Whiteman from Bintel.
I've used it on all my scopes with great success.

[Blue Skies (Jacquie)]

You should be able to pull the whole thing apart and clean and regrease it. Just have a look underneath or on the side where the knobs at attached and there should be a plate you can unscrew and it will release the rack/s for cleaning etc.

Just don't drop anything down the tube onto the mirrors! Removing the whole focuser off the tube is best if you aren't sure.

[Shaun]

I found a lanolin based grease at the local hardware, any thoughs on this product?

I am in country WA so getting stuff is not easy, if you know of an online store i can get the right stuff at let me know.

[bluescope]

Hi Shaun

Here's American link for buying Superlube

http://www.buysuperlube.com/

Don't know if it helps !

[gregbradley]

I've used teflon grease additive I got from Super Cheap Auto over the years to help lub stuff. It works well.

Greg.

[Shaun]

Hi again, what should i use to clean the rack and pinion, i have found a product to re grease it?

[norm]

Hi Shaun,

Good quality lithium grease is the way to go. Bike shops (pedal type) sell it in tubes for greasing hubs, bottom brackets.

Kero should get it off, then rinse off with warm soapy water and a good dry down should do the trick