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Sky-Watcher AZ-EQ5 Counterweight

Sky-Watcher AZ-EQ5 Counterweight

by Sky-Watcher
SKU SW-S30201
$50.00 USD - $50.00 USD
$50.00 USD
$50.00 USD - $50.00 USD
$50.00 USD
Price Match Policy!
  • Adds 7.5 lb (3.4 kg) of balancing capacity
  • Fits the Sky-Watcher AZ-EQ5 and EQ6 mounts
  • Fits the standard 18 mm diameter counterweight shaft
  • Locks on the rod with a thumb screw
1 in stock
Qualifies for FREE Shipping in CONUS on orders over $350.
  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty

  • Sky-Watcher AZ-EQ5 Counterweight

    This Sky-Watcher AZ-EQ5 Counterweight adds 7.5 lb (3.4 kg) of balancing capacity to your mount, designed specifically to fit the 18 mm diameter counterweight shaft. As a single counterweight, it allows you to balance heavier optical tubes or add a second weight to the mount's 162 mm rod and 120 mm extension for maximum tracking precision.

    Balance Heavier 7.5 lb Payloads on Your AZ-EQ5

    When you upgrade to a larger telescope or add a full imaging train with a guide scope and camera, you need additional counterweights to achieve proper balance. This single 7.5 lb Sky-Watcher weight is designed for the AZ-EQ5, helping ensure your mount's motors operate with minimal strain, which directly translates to more accurate GoTo slewing and smoother tracking for astrophotography.

    • Dual-Mode Balancing: For use in Alt-Az mode, balance the payload in equatorial mode first and mark the counterweight position, so it can be re-installed at the marked position.

    Designed for the AZ-EQ5's 18 mm Counterweight Rod

    Sky-Watcher designed this counterweight for the AZ-EQ5 mount, whose counterweight rod is 18 mm in diameter and 162 mm long, with a 120 mm extension supplied with the mount. The EQ6 uses the same 18 mm bar, so the weight fits it too. A thumb screw locks the weight at any position along the rod.

  • Why do I need an extra Sky-Watcher AZ-EQ5 Counterweight?

    You need an additional counterweight when your telescope and accessories (camera, guide scope, filter wheel) are too heavy to be balanced by the weight(s) that came with your mount. Proper balance is critical for the health of your mount's motors and for achieving accurate tracking for astrophotography.

    How do I install this 7.5 lb counterweight on the AZ-EQ5?

    On the AZ-EQ5, loosen the two bolts that lock the counterweight rod, gently pull out the rod and re-tighten the bolts. Loosen the R.A. clutch and rotate the R.A. axis until the rod points toward the ground. Remove the threaded cap from the end of the rod, loosen the thumb screw on the 7.5 lb counterweight, slide it onto the rod and re-tighten the thumb screw. To balance, move the weight along the rod until the mount stays stationary without support with the rod parallel to the ground, then tighten it again.

    I use my AZ-EQ5 in Alt-Az mode. How does that affect balancing with this weight?

    The AZ-EQ5's manual recommends a specific procedure. You should first set up the mount in Equatorial mode to properly balance the payload against the counterweights. Once balanced, mark the position of the 7.5 lb counterweight on the shaft. You can then reconfigure the mount to Alt-Az mode and place the weight at the marked position for optimal performance.

  • SKU S30201
    Weight 7.5 lb (3.4 kg)
    Shaft Diameter Compatibility 18 mm
    Compatible Mount Sky-Watcher AZ-EQ5 (GT), EQ6
    Locking Mechanism Thumb screw
    Quantity Included 1
    Mount Rod Dimensions Fits 18 mm diameter, 162 mm long rod plus 120 mm extension

    • Counterweight, 7.5 lb (3.4 kg)

      × 1

  • Sky-Watcher 2-Year Warranty