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iOptron Pier Top Plate for CEM60 & CEM70 Mounts
The iOptron Pier Top Plate is the stock adapter for mating a CEM60 or CEM70 mount head to an iOptron permanent pier or tri-pier. This plate provides the correct bolt pattern for a direct, secure installation for these specific mounts. A compatibility note from September 20, 2023, indicates that using this plate with a GEM45 mount requires user modification.
Direct Fit for iOptron CEM60 & CEM70 Mounts
This Pier Top Plate is engineered specifically for the bolt pattern and base dimensions of the iOptron CEM60 and CEM70 equatorial mounts. It ensures a stable, non-flexing connection to iOptron's line of permanent piers and portable tri-piers. For users of these mounts, this plate is a drop-in solution with no modification required.
Adapting for the GEM45: A Note on Required Machining
While this plate can be adapted for use with an iOptron GEM45 mount, it is not a direct fit. As of September 20, 2023, it has been confirmed that modification is necessary. The mounting holes on the plate are threaded, which can conflict with the threaded holes on some iOptron piers when using GEM45 hardware. Successful adaptation requires drilling out the threads on the plate's mounting holes and countersinking them to allow mounting bolts to sit flush.
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What is the iOptron Pier Top Plate for?
The iOptron Pier Top Plate is a mechanical adapter designed to connect specific iOptron equatorial mount heads, primarily the CEM60 and CEM70, to an iOptron tri-pier or permanent pier. It provides a secure, stable platform for the mount.
Can I use this Pier Top Plate with my iOptron GEM45 mount?
Yes, but it requires modification by the user. The plate is not a direct, bolt-on fit for the GEM45 mount out of the box. You will need access to tools to machine the plate to make it compatible with your setup.
What modifications are needed to fit the Pier Top Plate to a GEM45 and tri-pier?
To attach a GEM45 mount to a tri-pier using this plate, you must drill out the threads in the plate's mounting holes to create a smooth bore. The holes must also be countersunk so that the heads of your mounting bolts sit flush with or below the plate's top surface, allowing the mount to sit flat.
Will this plate fit my iOptron CEM70 mount without any changes?
Yes. This plate is designed as the stock adapter for the CEM70 and CEM60 mounts. It should provide a direct fit to an iOptron pier without any need for machining or modification.
Why does the Pier Top Plate need to be modified for a GEM45?
The issue arises from a mismatch of threaded holes. For some mount and pier combinations, both the plate and the pier it connects to have threaded mounting holes. To properly secure the mount, one set of holes must be a smooth, unthreaded bore to allow the bolt to pass through and tighten correctly.
Is any hardware included with the Pier Top Plate?
No, this product is the plate only. You will need to use the existing hardware that came with your mount and pier to attach it.
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| Compatibility Note |
Requires some machining for the GEM45 (as of September 20, 2023) |
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This product includes the pier top plate only. No other accessories or hardware are included.
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iOptron 2-Year Limited Warranty