DEC Circle Adjusting

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First things first, set the scope so the corrector plate is facing the floor.  Place the level on the back of the OTA and adjust the RA axis until the level reads 0 degrees.  The level must be in line with the DEC axis shafts.  This particular level is accurate to 0.1 degree.  Please note the externally installed handle on the back of the OTA.
Next step is to measure the inclination of the wedge assembly.  It is assumed that the top surface of the casting is at right angles to the centerline of the RA axis.  The scope does not have to be set up for observing to perform this test.
Finally, place the level on the rear housing in the same orientation as it was place on the RA housing.  Adjust the declination axis until the level reads the same as it did when placed on the RA housing in the previous step.  Then set the declination setting circles to 90 degrees.  If you can't get the DEC circle knob loose try one of those freebie jar opener gizmos that looks like a 5" circle of thin rubber, works like a charm.  Many of the later production LX200's (and I would assume the LX90) have Loctite put on the threads from the factory.

© Copyright 1997-2008 by Bill VanOrden