Re: [APML] Mounting a Tak FSQ-106 to a Losmandy G-11

[Mike Halderman <astro@mrh.org>]

I was just about to post almost the same question.  I just got a TV-85
and want to attach it to my G11.  I want to use the TV clamshell, I'm going
to use an OAG.  The universal dovetail plate is too long.  I think I will try 
to make my own short dovetail plate, unless someone has a better idea.

-mike
Michael Greger <mgreger@dashmail.net> writes:

> Anybody out there currently doing AP with this combo?  I searched the
> archives and found a bit of discussion (also searched Yahoo Tak group
> and Losmandy group).
>
> Seems like there a couple of options:
>
> 1) Use Tak Clamshell with Losmany DUP plate
> 2) Use Losmandy DUP plate with some sort of rings
> 3) Use William Optics plate with either Clamshell or rings
>
> For AP, it seems like the rings would be a better way to go.  Besides
> that, I would like to have the option to mount something (guidescope,
> STV E-finder, etc.) on top of the FSQ-106.  So, I went ahead with
> William Optic rings and so far, the DUP plate.  Unfortunately, there are
> two "problems" with the ring/DUP plate combo.
>
> As discussed before, the Losmandy DUP plate is too long.  It either
> collides with the dew shield or the focuser.  It is possible to rotate
> the tube and have the plate avoid the focusser, but I would rather not
> do that.
>
> As for the WO plate, it is currently unavailable from Anacortes with no
> prediction of when (or if) it will become available again.  In addition,
> I am concerned how the scope will balance with a Pentax 6x7 attached.
> The WO plate is nice and short, but it may not allow enough adjustment
> to get correct balance.
>
> So far, I have found one user who used the Clamshell, but others had
> cautioned against it for long exposure photography.  And, one user had
> trimmed the Losmandy DUP plate.  I would be concerned about its strength
> once cut since it has a long channel down the middle of the plate.
>
> At this point, I plan to get some 3/8" thick aluminum bar from
> McMaster-Carr and place it between the DUP plate and rings to raise the
> tube up high enough to avoid the dew shield and focusser.
>
> Can anyone on the list comment how they have done it?  Pictures would be
> great if available.  Are there any other mouting plates available that
> are compatible with the G11?
>
> And, can anyone comment on the balance point when a Pentax 6x7 is
> attached (I have to wait a few more days to get the accessory to attach
> the camera, so I can't try it myself yet)?
>
> Thanks for any tips,
> Mike
>
> P.S.
>
> As far as the petition to Kodak.  I guess since I just made yet another
> investment in medium-format photo gear, I would also probably go for
> several hundred dollars worth of 120 format negative film.  I'm with
> Matt on this one - seems like a proven winner (LE400 or the like) would
> be a good choice.
>
> --
> -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
> Michael J Greger                   Intel Corporation
> mgreger@dashmail.net               Intel Server Chipset Design Engineer
> http://www.geocities.com/mjgreger0 These are my opinions, not those of Intel!
> -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
>
>
>
>
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