On Wed, 3 Sep 2003 19:34:18 +0100, "Ricardo"
wrote:

Hi
I wanted to buy an equatorial mount for casual viewing that will be
left permanently outside. I was shocked at the prices (£150 +). I've got
access to a welder and basic workshop facilities and was thinking of making
my own out of an old bike frame I've got. Does anyone know if this is
possible? It's only got to take the weight of a 3" refractor. Alternatively,
does anyone know where I can but a cheap mount from, I only want to spend
about £30-£35.

P.S. I made my own Alt-Az mount which was quite easy.


Anything is possible to someone with DIY skills and enthusiasm!
I don't think you'll get a useful mount for much less than £100, they
are expensive even second-hnd. I suppose an AP1200 is out of the
question then? (joke). I've seen old mounts - perfectly usable - sell
within the price range you are talking about. An old Fullerscopes Mk11
or III (sans drives) would fit the bill. No, I don't have one.

ChrisH

UK Astro Ads: http://www.UKAstroAds.co.uk