Hi James,
Verdict is still out on my EQ8, I too have a declination issue with backlash and am in the process of speaking to Tasco about it to see what options there are.
I did a write up on the improvements I have found so far between the original release and the second batch of mounts here:
http://www.astrophotography.id.au/sk...irst-thoughts/
I can say that apart from the Dec backlash (and I am sure this will be fixed in time) that all other aspects of the mount are outstanding and I am very happy with it otherwise.
I will be keen to hear others input to your post.
Cheers
Anthony