[ATM] need help with an altitude bearing problem

[RP <rp@suttonsonline.us>]

Hello Everyone -

I have a telescope that was made for me by a friend. The altitude 
bearing surfaces are highly polished stainless steel against Teflon. 
This results in extremely smooth motion with hardly any "stick-tion" at 
all. This makes the scope very sensitive weight to changes at the ep and 
difficult to counterbalance (ie, a counterweight that will keep the 
scope from plunging downward when I add a 2" ep will also cause the 
scope to swing toward the zenith once I pass the midpoint going 
upwards). The bearing consists of an 8" diameter stainless steel "ring" 
riding on 2 Teflon pads. I am trying to come up with something else to 
use in place of the Teflon that would add a little drag to the system. I 
was thinking of using a plastic that is maybe not so smooth as Teflon? 
would pads made out of delrin or a similar hard plastic work? I have 
been told the best solution would be to redesign the bearing assy 
completely, but I have limited skills and even fewer tools. Any ideas 
would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks -

RP "Patrick" Sutton
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