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Starlight Instruments Micro Pinion Assembly Retrofit - fits Takahashi 2.5" Focusers (Sky 90, FCL-90, and FC 100)

Starlight Instruments Micro Pinion Assembly Retrofit - fits Takahashi 2.5" Focusers (Sky 90, FCL-90, and FC 100)

by Starlight Instruments
SKU SI-MPA-TAK2.5
CA$602.00 - CA$602.00
CA$602.00
CA$602.00 - CA$602.00
CA$602.00
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  • Adds 10:1 ratio dual-speed fine focusing
  • Direct retrofit for specific Takahashi 2.5" focusers
  • Replaces only the pinion assembly, retaining the original focuser body
  • Zero-backlash mechanism for precise, repeatable adjustments
  • Designed and manufactured in the USA
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  • Description
  • FAQ
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  • Starlight Instruments Micro Pinion Assembly Retrofit - fits Takahashi 2.5" Focusers (Sky 90, FCL-90, and FC 100)

    Upgrade the stock 2.5" focuser on your Takahashi Sky 90, FCL-90, FC 100, or FS-60CP telescope with the Starlight Instruments Micro Pinion Assembly (MPA) Retrofit. This direct-replacement component installs the legendary Feather Touch 10:1 dual-speed focusing mechanism, delivering the precise, repeatable control required for critical high-magnification planetary viewing and tack-sharp CCD imaging.

    The Feather Touch 10:1 Fine-Focus Upgrade for Takahashi Telescopes

    The stock Takahashi focuser is a capable performer, but it lacks the fine adjustment necessary for modern high-resolution applications. This MPA retrofit solves that by replacing the standard single-speed pinion with a friction-based planetary reduction assembly, providing a 10:1 fine-focus ratio. Ten turns of the gold fine-focus knob produce the same travel as a single turn of the coarse knob, allowing you to eliminate focus shift and nail critical focus every time.

    Engineered with a stainless steel housing, high-grade stainless steel ball bearings in a brass cage, and a tool steel reduction pin, the mechanism has virtually zero backlash. This ensures that your focus adjustments are immediate and precise, without the frustrating delay or overshoot common in lesser designs.

    Precision Engineering for the Takahashi 2.5" Focuser Body

    This is not a universal-fit part; it is a purpose-built upgrade designed specifically for the Takahashi 2.5" focuser body. By retaining the original Takahashi housing and drawtube, you preserve the telescope's optical alignment and balanced feel. The installation is straightforward, utilizing leveling screws to set the new pinion perfectly against the existing rack for smooth, consistent motion without binding or slippage.

    Like all Starlight Instruments components, the MPA retrofit is designed, machined, and assembled in the USA from hardened stainless steel and anodized aluminum. It's an investment in mechanical precision that brings a world-class focusing feel to your world-class Takahashi refractor.

    MPA Retrofit vs. Full Focuser Replacement: The Right Upgrade Path

    When considering a focusing upgrade, the choice is often between a pinion retrofit like this MPA or a complete focuser replacement. A full Feather Touch focuser replacement offers a higher load capacity, which may be necessary for very heavy imaging trains with large cameras, filter wheels, and off-axis guiders. However, it comes at a significantly higher cost and requires more invasive installation.

    The MPA Retrofit is the ideal solution if you are satisfied with the load capacity of your stock Takahashi focuser but simply need superior fine-focus control. It is a far more cost-effective upgrade that delivers the most critical element of the Feather Touch system—the 10:1 dual-speed mechanism—while being a simple, direct drop-in installation.

  • Will this MPA retrofit help me achieve sharper planetary images with my Takahashi Sky 90?

    Absolutely. When imaging planets like Jupiter or Saturn, seeing conditions can change in fractions of a second. The 10:1 fine-focus ratio of the Starlight Instruments MPA allows you to make micro-adjustments to follow those moments of perfect seeing, ensuring you capture the sharpest possible data with your high-speed camera.

    I'm trying to split the Double Double (Epsilon Lyrae) with my FC 100. How does this Starlight Instruments upgrade help?

    Splitting tight double stars requires perfect focus at high magnification. The stock focuser can make it difficult to move between "just inside" and "just outside" focus without overshooting. The Feather Touch MPA provides the delicate control needed to snap the stellar components into perfect, distinct points of light, turning a challenging observation into a repeatable success.

    Is the installation of the Starlight Instruments MPA-TAK difficult?

    No, the installation is designed to be straightforward for the telescope owner. It involves removing the stock pinion block and replacing it with the Feather Touch assembly using simple hand tools. Starlight Instruments provides detailed instructions, and the key is to properly set the leveling screws for smooth engagement with the focuser rack.

    What is the main benefit of the 10:1 fine-focus ratio on this Takahashi upgrade?

    The primary benefit is precision without backlash. The 10:1 ratio means you can make extremely small, controlled adjustments to the focal plane. This is essential for achieving the sharpest possible focus in astrophotography, where even a tiny error can result in soft stars, and for high-power visual observation.

    Does this Starlight Instruments retrofit replace the entire Takahashi focuser?

    No, it does not. This is a pinion assembly retrofit. It replaces only the knob and gear mechanism of your existing focuser. You retain the original, high-quality Takahashi focuser housing and drawtube.

    Will I need to lubricate the Feather Touch pinion assembly?

    No. The Feather Touch planetary reduction assembly is lubricated with high-quality grease during assembly at the Starlight Instruments factory and is designed to be maintenance-free for the life of the product. You should not need to apply any further lubrication.

  • Known to Fit Takahashi FCL-90, Takahashi Sky 90, Takahashi FC 100, Takahashi FS-60CP
    Country of Origin USA (designed, machined and assembled)
  • Starlight Instruments 2-Year Warranty