Got An iOptron 4.5kg Counter Weight For My ZWO AM5 Mount

Now that I'm selling my Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro I decided to get a counter weight for my ZWO AM5 which I will use in the near term to guide my EdgeHD 8.
iOptron 4.5kg / 10lb Counterweight w/ 20mm Bore for CEM26, GEM28, AZ Mount Pro & Others # 3006-10
agenaastro.com/ioptron-4-5kg-10lb-counterweight-for-cem26-gem28-az-mount-pro-others-3006-10.html
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[@thebst6408]

No need for the Zwo mount height extender I'm using my am5 with celestron 8 edge HD without any problems never hit Tripod less wights for you back 😎

[@AstroVagabond]

Good tip!

[@OldGirlPhotography]

If the scope is within the specs of the weight limit of the AM5 mount, the only purpose of the counterweight is to prevent tipping the tripod. It has no impact on the operation or efficiency of the mount motor, unlike older worm gear mounts. Some people replace the ZWO tripod with something more beefy to solve the tipping problem. There are lots of other tripod options now.

[@AstroVagabond]

I'm fine with this setup having tested with a counter weight and without. Did not see any detectable difference in guiding performance allowing for changes in seeing during the test duration. Agreed the purpose is to counter balance the load. Everyone should do what makes them comfortable. The profile of my EdgeHd is like a sail when the winds come up in the desert where I typically image. Wind can be calm and then out of nowhere 20 knot wind gusts show up right when I'm catching a nap in my campervan. Wind gusts strong enough to rock the van and wake me up. 😉 The counter weight gives me piece of mind for about $130.00 including the cost of the bar.

[@williamhouse5081]

Good to have you back, love your videos to be honest, I did think we lost you to pickle ball.

[@AstroVagabond]

Thank you great to be back in the field. Pickleball is now second in priority where is should be! 😉

[@robertgrenader858]

That rig looks awfully top-heavy with that ZWO tripod. I would strongly recommend keeping your battery back in the sling when imaging to lower the center of gravity when imaging.

[@AstroVagabond]

I use my photography studio sand bags which serve a similar purpose. 👍