My kingdom for a couple of 1/2 inch nuts!

Folks,

I need to do some customization of the Losmandy balance system I use on my LX90. The problem is that the 2.5 lbs counter-weight is too coarse-grained to acheive balance in the vertical axis against just a 2" diagonal & eyepiece (i.e. no heavy accessory mounted on top of the scope, so very little of the extra weight projects above the vertical axis),

Since Losmandy don't make a smaller counter-weight, I think I'll have to MacGyver one up myself, using appropriately sized nuts and stacked fender-washers.

The problem is though that the Losmandy threaded rod appears to be US size 1/2-13 (i.e. 1/2 inch diameter, 13 threads per inch). After searching many hardware stores over the weekend, I'm coming round to the conclusion that all Irish hardware retail has gone metric., d'oh!

So before I go to the trouble and expense of order these bits from the US, does anyone know if imperial-gauge nuts & washers can be found in Ireland?

Cheers,
Eoghan

So before I go to the trouble and expense of order these bits from the US, does anyone know if imperial-gauge nuts & washers can be found in Ireland?

I have struggled with the same problem getting Imperial-gauge screws for my Meade DS-2130. There does not seem to be a comprehensive retail source in Ireland, but Maplin Electronics on Jervis St has some Imperial gauge parts (mainly ones that are used in PCs), as does Lenehan's hardware on Capel St, if I remember correctly. I'm not sure about the sizes you listed.

Seán

Hi Eoghan,

I've had the same problem at times when making various items to accommodate American parts. When I was in the UK, I made sure I got a full range of Imperial Standard bolts and nuts. In fact I have used most items up over the past 3 years, but it has saved me alot of hasstle. So the next best thing will probably a trip to hardware store in Eniskillen, on my way to the Summer Sollstice event at Armagh Observatory (IAA).

Eamonn A

Thanks for the responses folks ...

After much searching, the closest source I could find was in the UK. Still a lot more convenient than getting this stuff shipped from the US

FYI the source was:
Arndale Engineering, South Shields, England
+44-191-455-6086
www.arndale.co.uk

Probably a good one to keep in mind if you ever need any imperial gauge nuts or bolts.

Cheers,
Eoghan