Well, with the exception of a couple of plastic covers for the gear/shaft ends that protrude from the motor cover (they're very pretty as is, but a cover is a cover) the project is pretty much finished. I've learned a LOT about my mount and have had a lot of fun. Here are some images of the finished product.
The left side of the mount
The right side of the mount
The whole thing with new legs
I found some plastic buttons on an old joystick that made perfect covers for the
holes in the motor cover. They even match the red trim on the mount.
Final thoughts
With all the modifications done, the HEQ5 is worth more than the sum of it's parts. It's a strong, stable and capable mount with all the inate ability of the Losmandy GM-8 or Vixen GP in a more functional package. The tracking is smooth and accurate and the hand controller interface by Rajiva is simple and direct.
I've noticed through observation and use several benefits to all the upgrades.
- Increased stability
- Simpler and more accurate telescope balance which allows up to 40x slewing
- Improved tracking with less periodic error and drastically reduced non-periodic error
- PEC control
- More versatility in guiding/centreing/slewing
The project, and documenting it has been fun and I hope it helps someone out there in their agonization over the choice of a new mount.
Clear skies
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