Orpington Astronomical Society

Astronomy => Technical => Topic started by: Simon E on Oct 28, 2009, 18:33:09

Title: Meade #884 Deluxe Field Tripod
Post by: Simon E on Oct 28, 2009, 18:33:09
Does anyone know if this tripod have the same screw arrangement as the celestron sct scopes. Ie can I fit my nexstar onto this tripod.

cheers
si
Title: Re: Meade #884 Deluxe Field Tripod
Post by: mickw on Oct 28, 2009, 19:20:15
2 x 1/4" whit. bolts approx 4 1/8" (105mm) apart North to South.
The thread will likely be the same, the rest will be down to luck.

There is potential to shift the bolts, but as existing there are heavier/thicker castings at the position of the bolts  :-?

Good luck
Title: Re: Meade #884 Deluxe Field Tripod
Post by: Simon E on Oct 28, 2009, 19:27:14
My other option could be this one then.
All this is to do with getting a wedge for the 8se.
Now the 4+5se comes with a field tripod with built in wedge(this tripod looks the same as mine, minus the wedge). I can get a field tripod with built in wedge for £99.

But if i go for the "Celestro way" i have to buy the wedge that will bolt onto my field tripod. The trouble with this option is that, just the celestron wedge by itself is over £200 :o

It seems to me that celestron are just after extra money.

si
Title: Re: Meade #884 Deluxe Field Tripod
Post by: mickw on Oct 28, 2009, 19:46:44
Take a look at this to see if it's what you want - polar alignment starts at page 50

http://www.meade.com/manuals/TelescopeManuals/ETXtelescopes/ETX_premier_edition.pdf (http://www.meade.com/manuals/TelescopeManuals/ETXtelescopes/ETX_premier_edition.pdf)
Title: Re: Meade #884 Deluxe Field Tripod
Post by: Mac on Oct 28, 2009, 21:54:37
its going to be very easy to make an adapter plate for the 884 tripod.

Drill a plate to fit the two screws on the 884, and then drill the holes for your telescope on the same plate.

1/2" aluminum will allow you to counter sink the bolt heads. on both sides.

Title: Re: Meade #884 Deluxe Field Tripod
Post by: Simon E on Oct 29, 2009, 08:11:37
Where is the best place to get hold of a small square of 1/2" alum to make up the plate. Is there a local supplier in our area?

Cheers si
Title: Re: Meade #884 Deluxe Field Tripod
Post by: Ian on Oct 31, 2009, 09:12:22
how big do you need it? There's a fair amount of stock kicking around with the members here...