New Focuser

[jjjnettie (Jeanette)]

I received my new Crayford style 10:1 Focuser yesterday.
It works perfectly well when it's horizontal but it can't hold the weight of the draw tube when it's vertical. The screws will hold it in place so it doesn't move,but you can't adjust focus, otherwise the tube just falls straight out to full extension. Are there other adjustments that I need to make?
It's frustrating the hell out of me. Am I not using it properly or have I bought myself a lemon?


PS. My astro goodies arrived and I had pristine skies, so I knew something had to go wrong.

[peter_4059 (Peter)]

One of the screws (closest to the eyepiece) is the tension and the other is a focus lock. You don't want the lock tightened or you won't be able to move the focus tube. You need enough tension on the tension screw to allow the tube to move when you adjust the focus but not too loose where the tube will move under the weight of the eyepiece.

Peter

[jjjnettie (Jeanette)]

Ta Peter.
I appreciate you taking the time to answer.

[peter_4059 (Peter)]

You're welcome. Did that solve the problem?

[jjjnettie (Jeanette)]

It certainly did. I refitted it to the scope tonight.
The difference between my old R&P and the new Micro focuser is incredible.
It's so silky smooth and it's heavenly to make vibration free delicate adjustments.
Thanks again for your help.

[iceman (Mike)]

Congrats Jeanette, it sure makes a huge difference.