Electric Focuser Mount, Meade ETX-125 Telescope

thingiverse

A mounting bracket for electric motorized focusers on Meade ETX telescopes, specifically the 1244 kit for ETX-90/105 models, can be adapted to fit the ETX-125 model. The 1247 kit designed for ETX-125 is scarce, making the 1244 kit more accessible. To mount the bracket without drilling or altering the telescope's structure, attach it to the right side flip mirror knob and the flange surrounding the focuser shaft opening. However, you will need to remove the plastic standoff by cutting under the motor unit and also removing a small plastic piece. An M3x14mm socket head cap screw is required to secure the 1244 motor unit to the bracket. Begin by loosening the set screw of the right-side flip mirror knob and the focuser knob, then remove both knobs as they will not be reinstalled. Separate the halves of the 1244 housing by removing two screws, setting aside the top cover and internal gears. Carefully pull out the motor, leaving it hanging from its wires, and move the wiring to a safe location. A milling machine can be used to trim the standoff until it is flush with the surrounding housing. Test fit the 1244 housing to the bracket and trim the housing under the motor until it clears the bracket, telescope rear cover, and the right side telescope mount bracket. Be cautious not to cut the ribs that hold the motor in place, preventing it from spinning inside the housing. Press a spacer into the brass focuser gear, potentially requiring sanding or filing of the outer surface for a proper fit. Then, ream the inside diameter of the spacer with a 5/32 hand reamer to match the focuser shaft's dimensions. Install the gear with its set screw facing towards the telescope and its flat face away from it. Reinstall the right-side flip mirror knob, rotating it 180 degrees due to access restrictions caused by the bracket installation. The ETX-125's focuser can be controlled using the 497 Autostar hand controller. If needed, you can purchase the 1244 motor unit and brass focuser gear separately without the focuser hand controller.