To: atm{at}shore.net
From: Doug Tanaka 
Reply-To: Doug Tanaka 


At 09:18 PM 2/1/2003, you wrote:

>Hello,
>
>when I built my dobsonian (12 1/2" f/6) 18 years ago, the azimuth motion
>was buttery smooth.  After several years of not using it, I recently have
>begun to refurbish and use it again.  The once smooth action is now only a
>memory.  It sticks bad when starting to move it, and jerks back and forth
>when I try to center something.  On the ground board are three teflon
>pads,  On the rocker is a formica disk, with a little texture to it.  I
>tried cleaning all the contact points, but it was still sticking. Next i
>tried spraying 303 protectant on them, which seemed to make things worse.


David,
]
I would suggest cleaning the Formica with a Scotch Brite or similar-type
pad and very lightly sanding the Teflon.  I don't know what is in 303
protectant, but what I find works really well is a lubricant called
TriFlow, available in bike shops or hardware stores.  It goes on wet but
dries fast leaving behind a Teflon residue.  I used to use Turtle Wax with
silicone but I think this works better, sprayed on and wiped with a paper
towel.

Doug Tanaka

--- BBBS/NT v4.00 MP