Gearbox

Titan Tips

 

Gearbox removal and re-assembly is straightforward. It would be wise to have a small container to put the small parts into as you proceed. The parts will stay clean and you won't lose them. First remove the wire from the motor. 

Fig.1

Then remove the 2 screws (Fig.1) from the motor while keeping a finger on the end of the motor. If you don't, it may fall out!

 

Fig.2

This is what the motor looks like on the hidden end.

 

 

Fig 3

Now the gearbox cover can be removed by removing the 2 visible screws (Fig.3). Again, retain the cover with a finger while removing the screws.

 

Fig.4

Now you can see the gearbox (Fig.4). It is retained by the 2 extension nuts. Pliers are needed to loosen these. Go gently though so as not to mar the nuts.

 

Fig.5

Once removed, the gearbox can be gently wiggled and slipped off the 2 studs (Fig.5). The gearbox is made from plastic so be careful!

 

Fig.6

Remove the 4 screws retaining the adapter plate (Fig. 6) while retaining it with a finger.

 

Fig.7

Now the gear on the end of the worm is revealed (Fig.7). This is the gear that should be rotated many many times by hand to rotate the Ra or Dec axis 360 deg. See Worm Clearance.

Reassembly is essentially done in reverse with a note of caution. But while the gearbox is off, rotate the protruding gear to verify its freedom of movement. Very lightly lubricate the gear. See Worm Lubrication. 

Also, when assembling anything with multiple retention, assemble evenly, a little at a time. Work cross pattern. For instance, if putting a wheel on your car, don't put on one lug and then torque the heck out of it. Put them all on and bring them down in the criss cross alternating pattern. This applies to anything you assemble. This was taught to me by my Father when I was 5 yrs old. Quite some time ago. Use this wisdom as you proceed.

  1. Install the adapter (Fig.6).  The gear on the end of the worm fits inside a bore in the adapter. Do not force anything! Very gently wiggle only.

  2. Install the 4 adapter retaining screws but only lightly. Wiggle the adapter a little to see if it can find "home". Don't hold it cocked in any direction when snuging the screws.

  3. Slip the gearbox over the 2 studs while the protruding gear fits into the bore in the adapter (Fig.5). CAUTION: Do not force it. It CAN go in easily. If not, rotate the gear slightly and try again. It came out easy and will go back in easy.

  4. Now assemble the 2 extension nuts which retain the gearbox (Fig.4). DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN. The ears on the plastic gearbox are prone to breakage if over tightened.

  5. Assemble the gearbox cover (Fig.3).

  6. Assemble the motor (Fig.1). DO NOT put one screw in and tighten. Bring one down close to the bottom, then the other, alternating until snug. If you just tighten one completely and then the other, there's a good chance the motor would be assembled "cock eyed".

  7. Re-connect the motor wire.