After looking this over, it doesn't look to bad. I read that I should label each screw to make sure they get back in the same position to make the cell fit better, and then I'll pull the cell out, put the mirror cell on a towel while I fix the altitude bearing. On a different note is anyone watching Eps. Auriga? It seems to have increased from around 3.6 up to 3.8 or 3.9. Just wondering if anyone else has been watching this. On 2010-01-11 06:40, Jay Eads wrote:
My XT10 has been giving me problems of late and I noticed tonight when I was bringing her in that the left side altitude side bearing is extremely loose. Looking at the tube I can see the only way to tighten these will be by removing the primary so I can reach it. Having said what I need to do, I have to admit that I have never removed a primary mirror and it makes me a little nervous (probably like the first time I collimated which is second nature now). Any advice on removing it so I can fix this issue (the tube won't tilt in the rocker because it is that lose and I don't want the bolt to come off and fall on the primary to the tube is flat right now). I would like to do it because I believe experience is the best teacher but anyone want to take an hour or so out of a day to just offer some support?
On another note I have considered flocking the tube around the primary and across from the focuser and this might be a good time. I have seen Protostar used, black paint (but I do not have the tools I believe to ensure that all the dust is removed afterwards from the tube) and felt which I am really hesitant on because I think it will come off eventually. Thoughts on flocking and materials? I'm sure I can remove the primary on my own and tighten down the bolts, just nervous. Oh, what should I do with the primary while I have it out to fix the altitude side bearing? Just leave it out sitting somewhere safe? The mirror is only 8 months old so I don't see a need for a bath/ cleaning. Thanks for putting up with my uncomfortableness.