Re: ATM Friction in a mount made from pipes

[cshaw@ghgcorp.com (Chuck Shaw)]

Mark, 

I have an old pipe mount and it works fine!  If the scope is balanced it
should not have too much tendancy to rotate.  However, I drilled and tapped
a hole for a small machine screw that goes through the joint where the
threads are.  I used a NYLON machine screw (widely available at Ace Hardware
stores, etc) so the threads would not get messed up/  That way you have an
adjustable friction brake.

I also suggest you apply some valve lapping compound to the threads and work
the joints with that in there to clean up any burrs, etc on the threads.
It'll make it a LOT smoother!

Enjoy!

Chuck


At 01:28 AM 9/1/96 -0500, Mark Gilbert wrote:
>Hello,
>
>I am a first-time telescope builder.  I checked out Richard Perry's
>book, Build Your Own Telescope, from the library, and I am building his
>4.25" reflector.  My concern is with the equatorial mount.  It is made
>of 1 1/2" galvanized pipe, and turns by rotating on the pipe's threads. 
>I am afraid that the mount will not have enough friction to stay put
>once I point the scope.  Does anyone know a way to add friction to the
>pipe joints?
>
>Thanks,
>Mark Gilbert
>
>
Chuck Shaw
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