GSO Encoder Mounting - moved

[glend (Glen)]

Here is my problem, I am installing a wifi 'Pushto' DSC system on my GSO 12" dob (the new Andrews Comms models with the black knobs). I already have the 'Pushto' box, SkySafari Plus Android app and tablet , cables, encoders etc organised. The Altitude encoder is giving me problems. The GSO uses a friction bearing controlled with the black knob on the outside of the bearing.

I have considered a number of different approaches to the Alt encoder, from belts, to bell cranks, incline encoders (sadly now out of production at USDigital), roller or gear drive, etc. Does anyone have experience in DIY install of the ALt encoder on the GSO dob that they can share.

[AG Hybrid (Adrian)]

We know what supplier your talking about. Sounds like your up **** creek mate. JMI do encoder mounting hardware for Meade and Skywatcher dobs but not GSO/Bintel/Apertura/Zhumel. So out of luck there.

So I have 3 decent options I can think of.

1)Buy the whole kit(Encoders,cables and mounting hardware), then sell the unit?

2)Sell everything and get an Orion xx12i or a Skywatcher/Orion Goto Dob.

3)Sell the GSO Dob. Buy a Meade dob. Buy the JMI mounting hardware.


But, I have thought of a 4th option. Somewhat left field. Buy one of those really cheap goto scopes. Mount a strong laser pointer on it and use it as a laser targeting system for deep space objects.

It all comes down to how bad do you want assisted targeting?

[glend (Glen)]

Not 'up **** creek' yet, thanks. I think I have found a solution. I removed the Alt bearing and had a close look at possible DIY mods and it doesn't seem difficult to do as its simply cast aluminium. The spindle part (that bolts onto the tube) is cast and open at the end where the knob bearing is located. The black knob bearing simply unscrews (once you remove the lock screw) and the knob has an aluminium insert which is already machined in the centre to locate the hole needed to be drilled.

So I am going to drill out the knob and its insert. I have a large washer that fits into the neck of the spindle perfectly and as far as a spindle bushing bushing is concerned I will either pour epoxy resin into the spindle neck (and then drill it out when set) or use a piece of dowel rod glued in place in the neck.

For the encoder bolt I will need to fabricate a locking head onto my through bolt and a cap screw type bolt seems to be the logical way to go, through drilled for the encoder shaft lock screw. So it doesn't seem that hard since the only impediment is the knob itself.

I will take some photos as I go and put them up here for people that want to DIY their own ALt bearing.

[AG Hybrid (Adrian)]

Well, you seem to know what your doing. Next time post this in the ATM or equipment forum. As no beginner I have ever met would attempt to do what your doing. You may get a better response there. Alot of the people who frequent those forums rarely look into the beginners forum.

[glend (Glen)]

Thanks Adrian, I will do that. Consider this closed. Photos will go up in the Equipment Forum

[acropolite (Phil)]

I suggest you PM the mods and get the thread moved then you won;t need to start another.