Optimizing the SkyWatcher AZ3 for more stable observation near the zenith

Hello Mr. Kloß,

After my new Celestron C6, which you had perfectly prepared and adjusted on an AZ 3 mount, was unable to maintain the telescope's position due to the heavy weight of my 24 and 34 mm eyepieces when observing near the zenith, despite tightening the central screw, I made the following modification:

Loosen the front screw on the photo adapter base and extend the base at the bottom with an aluminum U-profile with a matching hole at the location of the photo base's retaining screw. The aluminum profile is then secured with the screw.
Drill another hole in the U-profile at the other end to accommodate a carabiner. Choose the hole distance from the front edge and the hole diameter so that the carabiner maintains its almost perpendicular position even under tension.
Attach a rope loop to the mount head.
Connect the rope loop and the carabiner with a rubber cord (in my case, 6 mm; I purchased the cord from a boating accessory store).

It looks like this: See image

As the alignment to the zenith increases, the tension of the rubber band increases, and even heavy eyepieces weighing up to approximately 550 grams can be held securely. It is still necessary to carry a wrench for the central screw on the mount, as this will need to be tightened from time to time.

Best regards,

Gregor J.