Balance System

I originally saw this idea somewhere on the web so I will not take any credit for its conception.

Celestron 80 mounted on Top Rail with a T-Lock Nut and 1/4-20 Threaded Bolt	Top Rail with a T-Lock Nut and 1/4-20 Threaded Bolt
Bottom Rail with two weights in place	A=T-Slot Extrusion, B=1/4-20 Threaded Bolt, C=T-Slot Nut, D=Speed Nut, E=Prepared Scuba Weight

The rails for the balance system are T-Slot Extrusions typically used for making workshop fixtures and jigs. They are readily available from Lee Valley Tools Ltd. and come in 2 foot and 4 foot lengths. These are cut to the length of your scope, center drilled and put into place on the top and bottom of the scope using the long screws already part of the scope. Prior to screwing into place you add one or two T-Slot Nuts which will accept the 1/4/-20 threaded bolts. When the bolts are tightened down they lock the T-Slot Nut in place. This system can also be used for mounting rings. In addition Speed Nuts are available for locking items onto the 1/4-20 threaded bolts.

My contribution to the Balance System design was the use of scuba belt weights. I coated the 1.5 lbs lead weights in blue (close enough to Meade Blue)  plastidip, drilled 1/4" hole in the lead and then screwed the threaded 1/4-20 bolt into the weight. A few twists on the weight and they are held fast in their position. With the addition of a few washers I can easily add plastidipped coated barbell weights of various sizes to accommodate heavier accessories.