Aligning the HEQ5 polar scope with the RA axis
Before you can do anything with it you HAVE to align the polar scope with the RA axis of the mount. While the on-line instructions are good; they're typical Chinese instructions which means that they're not as clear as could be. Here's what I did.

The first thing you want to do is set the thing up on the tripod with the altitude around 0. Then find something off in the distance like the a power line insulator, tree branch or something else. Rotate the mount so that the declination axis is horizontal, look through the polar scope and place the centre X on the object.

Now, rotate the RA axis so that the declination axis is horizontal but with the counter-weight shaft on the other side. Notice where the X is in relation to your object. Using the three small set screws gingerly adjust the set-screws to move the X 1/2 way back to the object. Now re-center the X on the object.



Rotate the RA axis again 180 degrees putting the counter-weight shaft on the other side and again adjust the X 1/2 way towards the object. Do this as many times as necessary until when you rotate the RA axis the X stays on the object.

Your polar scope is now aligned with the RA axis and you are ready to move on to

Setting up your polar alignment 'slide rule'.