installed covers

Tested the GoToStar again. This after picking up some 1-inch long 1/4-20 bolts and "spacers." I really wanted a solid metal sleeve but I couldn't find anything suitable. Actually, when I spotted the rubber grommets, I wondered if they might be better. The motor could float a bit, like on a suspension. I also found some well caps that could work.

Couldn't get the Dec motor cover to fit, even after trimming. Turned out that it was too tight when the gears were run outboard vs. inboard.

First results were not encouraging. Slewing suddenly stopped and hand controller showed a "high current" message. Took the cover off. The gears hopped at high speed. Cleaned up.

Straightened Dec shaft with a large persuader (screwdriver).

Motor ran wild! Light? Still wonky. Had I damaged the thin timing gear? Fortunately, it settled down when I bent the emitter back in a bit.

Cover on. Everything protected. At last!

Be nice to take up north. Show Charles. But I think it's gonna thunder and lightning on us...