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I have a crazy idea, but one Ive thought a lot about. I have a Televue NP 127is mounted on my AP Mach 1 GTO for imaging. The setup works great and has for a long time. As this is my only GEM Mount, I do some visual obs by setting up an alt-az rig with my Berliebach, DMQ6 and my Mewlon 180. I like to observe the moon and planets visually and only use my TV 127 for DSOs. I bought an ADM side by side dovetail system. The plan is to mount my Mewlon 180 side by side with the NP127. That way I can use my mount for both imaging when I have the itch, or for visual. I can leave the imaging train set up as always and enjoy some visual, or, even while imaging I should be able to use the Mewlon for visual of the general region I am imaging. I think my AP Mach 1 is perfectly capable of handling the weight, if I balance it properly. Total weight is under 40lbs. and everyone talks about the Mach 1 being able to handle much more, even for imaging. This may not work and I haven't changed everything yet. Does ANyone have any thoughts or comments on this crazy idea? Thanks Jeff |
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| Ok, I tried it. I was unable to balance the rig, even with added counterweights. Too bad, I was really hoping to use my mewlon on my mount and pier. Instead I mounted an Astro-tech EDQ 65 on the side by side. Ill try that tonight and see if I like it. |
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Jeff I have a Mach 1 but have not tried the side by side setup. However, I can tell you that Roland from AP would give you a thumbs up based on comments he has made on the AP Yahoo sight. He prefers that over piggybacking and I believe the Mach 1 is rated to handle a payload around 65 lbs, realizing you do not want to hit that mark for imaging. The only thing I heard was that side by side balancing is tricky. I'd be curious to hear how it goes if you try it. Bruce |
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Bruce, I was unable to get it balanced at all, even with five counterweights. Very awkward with two 14-16 lbs scopes. I think the Mach 1 would handle it, but without good balance its pointless. Oh well, I can still use the Mewlon on my Alt-Az DMQ6 for visual, no electricity required.  |
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| Ahhh... that stinks! Well, you gave it a go and I have heard it is a nightmare to get it balanced. Thanks for the update, Jeff. |
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| Do you have the standard CW shaft or the large one? |
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| I only have the standard counterweight shaft. Perhaps the larger shaft would make a difference! I didn't want to spend a lot more money doing this, at least for now. I am extremely happy with my Mach 1 GTO; it does exactly what it is designed and advertised to do for me. Maybe a larger Astro Physics mount will be in my future. |
