Lightbridge New Modifications

[astronut (John)]

Calling all Lightbridge owners, Along with the other necessary mods, I'm sure you're all aware of the "BUMP" that happens when the optical tube assembly swings from horizontal to vertical.
The bump is caused by the azimuth tension knob being a little too high.
I've spoken to Tony Costanzo of Astronomy Shoppe in the U.S. about the problem and he will have a fix for this shortly.
If you are interested in buying one it might be a good idea if we pool our orders and buy as one.
The new knob is about $19.00 + postage.
Please let me know if you are interested. Cheers, John.

[ving (David)]

sheesh, i'd have thought that if it was a problem in construction meade would have supplied the new knob for free

[JimmyH155]

My 12 inch deluxe is no problem. No bumps . It clears. Must be a Meade mod or a mistake....

[astronut (John)]

David, You'd think so wouldn't you. Anyway this should be the last thing needed.
I think I'll send all the mods to Meade in the U.S. to their R&D departement, along with my bill!!!

[spacezebra (Petra)]

Hi John

Yes for a knob

Cheers Petra

Originally Posted by astronut

David, You'd think so wouldn't you. Anyway this should be the last thing needed.
I think I'll send all the mods to Meade in the U.S. to their R&D departement, along with my bill!!!

[astrogeek (Leon)]

I fixed that problem on my LB buy using lower profile washers and recessing the bottom one into the wood. No bump anymore

[astronut (John)]

After a bit of brainstorming I've decided not to purchase the latest mod for the azimuth knob. Instead I used coarse sandpaper and sanded about 4mm off the top of the original knob.
Then very fine sandpaper to a ultra smooth finish. A wash with hot water & detergent. And there you have it a still original knob that doesn't look any different, but it's 4mm lower and "NO BUMP IN THE NIGHT". Cost $1.50 sandpaper, 15 minutes of your time. Sure beats the $30 for a new knob with threaded shaft.

[astronut (John)]

Well after many months of tinkering here is my 12"LB finished...........for now anyway .
1. Dewshield/lightshield. Made of High Impact Polystyrene Sheet. $15.00
2. Dewshield for the finder. Free
3. New 8x50mm finder. $70
4. Homemade heater for the main e/p + finder, including control box. $50
5. High tech knob for pulling/pushing scope. $2.
6. Shroud.$90
7. The case at the end of the optical tube is a cd case with two 1.25kg barbell weights. This is the counter weight for the heavier nose.$15.
8. Powder coat end rings black. $40.
9. Stiffer collimation springs $20.
10. New primary + secondary collimation knobs $50.
It has been a labour of love, and I'm sorry it's over. These changes have certainly improved the operation and feel of the scope, and make it much easier to use.

[astronut (John)]

Here are a couple more......

[ving (David)]

she's looking pretty flash now!

[astronut (John)]

Thanks Ving, I'm trying to think of a name for it now

[spacezebra (Petra)]

Im impressed John

Well done
Cheers Petra