SN Focuser and Reaching Focus

Many people have experienced problems reaching focus with the SN OTAs. In some cases collimation is the problem, but not always. Generally speaking with 1.25" eyepieces most users with be using the extension and adapter. (Shown assembled on the right in the image) When a barlow is added some find it no longer possible to reach focus. In these cases, you'll need to remove the extension. If you are using 1.25" eyepieces, remove the 1.25" adapter from the extension tube by turning it counter-clockwise. Then attach it to the focuser tube. Having removed the extension you should now be able to reach focus.

The real problem is working with eyepiece and barlow combinations that requite both setups. Switching between the screw on adapters takes to long and isn't all that easy to do in the dark. My solution was to scrap the Meade 1.25" adapter and extension tube. Now I use the 2" adapter (shown above middle), and a 1.5" extension and 1.25" adapter I purchased from Moonlite Telescope Accessories. They slip in just like eyepieces and secure into place with nylon set screws.