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Balancing the Scope
*114mm models ONLY*
Balancing
Sometimes when using heavy eyepieces or accessories, the
optical tube
can become out of balance. It
is important to balance the optical tube so when you release the
vertical lock
(fig.1, 14), the telescope will
not swing quickly or move uncontrollably. A balanced telescope also allows for smooth motion when using
the telescope.
STEP 1: Test the balance of the scope.
While supporting the
optical tube
with one hand, loosen the
ver-
tical lock knob
on the side of the mount. The optical tube will
turn freely about this axis. If the optical tube tends to move or drift
when your supporting hand is moved, it is necessary to balance
the optical tube.
STEP 2: Determine the imbalance; either
top-heavy or bottom-heavy.
Top-heavy: If the front of the telescope tube wants to rotate down-
ward, the optical tube is too heavy in the front and needs to be
adjusted toward the back.
Bottom heavy: If the back of the telescope wants to rotate down-
ward, the optical tube is too heavy in the back and should be ad-
justed forward.
Step 1.
Step 2.
Top heavy
Bottom heavy
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