Meade Pier LX600-ACF 16 inch Instruction Manual - Page 21

Appendix A: Polar Mode with MAX-Wedge Mounting the Optical Tube Assembly (OTA) This step requires at least two (2) people which that can lift up to 70 pounds each. It is highly suggested that when possible, the help of a third person be used to spot and guide the OTA arms in to place. Installing the 16" OTA on the MAX-Wedge requires greater care and is more challenging than assembly in the polar Mode. The optical tube assembly (OTA) weighs about 125 lbs. and it must be positioned accurately in order to mount to the fork. Note that when installing the OTA in the polar mode, the OTA is initially hung on two (2) shoulder bolts. These bolts will safely support the weight of the OTA assembly; care is need in the lifting the OTA on to the two shoulder bolts. Note orientation of the RA Lock Fig. 35: Position the holes over the shoulder bolts. When they are in place, slide the OTA back so that the shoulder bolts lock into the slots. d. Tighten the Dec. lock (Fig. 1, 14) to a firm feel only. With you on one side of the OTA and your assistant on the other side, grasp the two handles on each side and lift the OTA onto the top of the fork. Position the holes over the shoulder bolts. When they are in place, slide the OTA back so that the shoulder bolts lock into the slots (Fig. 35). Fig. 34: RA Lock Pointing Away from the control panel a. Orientate the fork arms so that the RA lock is pointing away from the control panel. Rotate the RA lock into the "locked" position so that it will not move when you mounting the OTA. In this orientation the receiving slots will pointing upward to easily accept the hanger screw as it slips down b. Located on the two top surfaces of the fork are two shoulder bolts. These two bolts function as locating pins for the OTA. On the inside edge of the Dec. castings are two matching holes (with slots). Before trying to mount the OTA, take time to locate these two bolts and holes. Notice that the bolts and holes are located on one side of the castings, requiring the OTA to be mounted one way only. c. Before attempting to mount the OTA, take time to verify that the shoulder bolts have sufficient extension. When the OTA is mounted on to the fork arm, it will hang from these shoulder bolts. If the bolt is tightened down too far, they will not slide into slots. If necessary, back these bolts out so there is sufficient clearance for the bolt to slide into the slot. Fig. 36: Tighten the fork arm assembly using the provided hex key. e. Lock the OTA in place using the four 3/8"-16 x 1 1/4" bolts and 3/8" washers. Thread up the four bolts into the bottom of the Dec. castings, two on each side. Using the supplied hex key, tighten to a firm feel only (Fig. 36). 21