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iOptron MiniTower Pro/II Altitude Locking Knob Upgrade Kit

iOptron MiniTower Pro/II Altitude Locking Knob Upgrade Kit

by iOptron
SKU IOP-8955-DKL
CA$77.00 - CA$77.00
CA$77.00
CA$77.00 - CA$77.00
CA$77.00
Price Match Policy!
  • Direct upgrade for iOptron MiniTower Pro and MiniTower II mounts
  • Improves altitude axis locking and stability
  • Large, easy-to-grip design
  • Ideal for use with gloves in cold weather
  • Helps prevent slippage with heavier or unbalanced telescopes
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Warranty

  • MiniTower Pro/II Altitude Locking Knob Upgrade Kit

    This Altitude Locking Knob Upgrade Kit is a direct-fit replacement for the original knob on the iOptron MiniTower Pro and MiniTower II mounts. It is designed to provide significantly more leverage and a more secure grip, solving the common issue of altitude axis slippage with heavier telescope optical tubes. The larger, more ergonomic design makes adjustments easier and more precise, especially when operating in cold conditions with gloves on.

    A Secure Grip for Field Operations

    The stock altitude knob on the MiniTower series can be difficult to fully tighten, leading to frustration in the field. This upgrade features a larger, more textured surface that you can easily grip and turn, even while wearing thick winter gloves. This improved ergonomic design ensures you can apply enough torque to securely lock the altitude axis without struggling, making your observing sessions smoother and more enjoyable.

    Enhanced Stability for Heavier Telescopes

    When you mount a larger SCT or a refractor with a heavy diagonal and eyepiece, the stock locking knob may not be sufficient to prevent the telescope from slowly drifting downwards. This upgrade kit provides the mechanical advantage needed to create a firm, reliable lock on the altitude clutch. By ensuring the axis remains fixed, it protects your GoTo accuracy and prevents your target from drifting out of the field of view during observation or imaging.

  • What problem does the MiniTower Pro/II Altitude Locking Knob Upgrade Kit solve?

    This upgrade kit addresses two common issues with the stock iOptron MiniTower Pro and MiniTower II mounts: insufficient locking power on the altitude axis, which can cause heavier telescopes to slip, and a small, hard-to-grip knob that is difficult to operate, especially with gloves in cold weather.

    Which iOptron mounts is this upgrade kit compatible with?

    This kit is specifically designed as a direct-fit upgrade for the iOptron MiniTower Pro and the iOptron MiniTower II alt-azimuth mounts. It is not intended for other iOptron mount models.

    Will this upgrade kit help prevent my telescope from slipping in altitude?

    Yes. The primary benefit of this upgrade is its ability to provide a much tighter, more secure lock on the altitude axis. The increased leverage from the larger knob allows you to clamp the clutch more firmly, effectively preventing altitude drift and slippage, even with optical tubes that are near the mount's payload capacity.

    Is the MiniTower Pro/II Altitude Locking Knob Upgrade Kit difficult to install?

    Installation is straightforward. The upgrade knob is designed to be a direct replacement for the original factory knob. You simply unscrew the old knob and screw the new one on in its place, with no special tools required.

    I use my MiniTower Pro in the winter. Will this knob be easier to use with gloves on?

    Absolutely. The larger diameter and more substantial grip of the upgrade knob are a significant improvement for cold-weather observing. It allows for easy operation even when wearing thick gloves, eliminating the frustration of trying to manipulate the smaller stock knob with cold or covered hands.

    My 6" SCT is causing my MiniTower II to drift. Will this upgrade kit provide a more secure lock?

    Yes, this is an ideal scenario for this upgrade. A 6" Schmidt-Cassegrain (SCT) can be demanding for the MiniTower's altitude clutch. This upgrade kit will give you the necessary leverage to lock the axis firmly, stopping the slow drift and ensuring your telescope stays pointed exactly where your GoTo system placed it.

  • Compatibility iOptron MiniTower Pro, iOptron MiniTower II
    Function Replaces stock altitude axis locking knob

    • Altitude Locking Knob Upgrade Kit

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  • iOptron 2-Year Limited Warranty