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Post by jpatten on May 28, 2014 16:42:01 GMT -5
A friend alerted me to this scope coming up at an auction--an antiques dealer, where apparently no one looking for a telescope would check. I got it for an unbelieveable price ($60!)… Overall, it seems in mostly solid condition-- one wing nut was missing from the mirror base and the secondary was about 110 degrees out of alignment (!), but the motor drive works, the mirror is in decent condition (or will be once thoroughly cleaned). I'd guess this was uncovered in a garage or basement for many years…now my fun begins! Please send any recommendations on the restoration--I'm all ears and anxious eyes!    |
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Post by jpatten on May 28, 2014 16:45:22 GMT -5
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Post by Admin on May 29, 2014 10:23:53 GMT -5
Hi John
I would again start by removing the main mirror for safe keeping and the remove the entire secondary (the 4 outside nuts on the vanes). There are two nuts above and below the center of the vane that hold the secondary. Loosen both nuts and you will be able to turn the secondary for alignment.
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Post by Datapanic on May 29, 2014 20:52:39 GMT -5
Nice! And for $60!!! Looks like a '75 8" f/7 Lightweight Deluxe. I have the same model and year that I bought new back then and it gives exceptional views. I never had it on a high tech optical bench, but did do a focault test on it and it had a very nice surface. If the upper aluminum end ring is missing, you can take the lower one off and have a machine shop make a copy of it. Finding an authentic finder for it might take a while, but they do occasionally show up. A good source to check is Don Rothmann's Astro Parts Outlet - check his list and send him an email - he'll send photos of what he has. THe website is: astronomy-mall.com/astro.parts.outlet/ |
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Post by Admin on May 30, 2014 2:07:29 GMT -5
Hi John
I believe I have a ring for an 8" that you can have. Let me know if you need it. It was a ring that got split in shipping. I used JB weld on it, sanded and polished it and it really looks good! Just a fine line where the crack was.
Turk
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Post by jpatten on Jun 8, 2014 22:11:27 GMT -5
Thanks, guys! I am missing the top ring--thanks for offering one, Turk!
I was able to align the mirrors and have a few minutes outside--though the sky wasn't quite dark enough to check on some fainter objects ( and no planets were in viewable areas), I was able to see the stars were very clear and sharply focused. I'm hoping to have a chance for some lunar views later this week. The mount is terrific, although without the finder scope, it is tail-heavy and prone to drifting in some positions.
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Post by Admin on Jun 9, 2014 6:56:04 GMT -5
PM me your address and I will send it to you.
Turk
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