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Will my mount setup work?

ZWO AM3N Portable Setup
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Eric Miller avatar
Eric Miller avatar

Running a 19.5 lbs William optics Ultracat 91 setup on an AM3n with ZW0 TC 40 tripod to make the heaviest “travel scope” I would run.

I’ve heard folks complain about carbon fiber legs and say I should instead go for the steel. But I’m assuming my setup isn’t too heavy?

I also purchased the ZWO PE 160 lightweight pier extension. Says it has a maximum weight capacity of 26-28 lbs, some folks suggest 22 lbs so I’m right below that. Should I have gotten the pe200?

I also have vibration suppression pads from celestron. And a 7.5lbs counterweight to use. I should be fine I assume?

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Tony Gondola avatar
Tony Gondola avatar

The only problem I can imagine is the rig tipping over in a high wind gust. You might consider adding weight (rocks-whatever) into the bag to lower the overall GC.

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Eric Miller avatar
Eric Miller avatar

Tony Gondola · Jul 26, 2026 at 02:47 PM

The only problem I can imagine is the rig tipping over in a high wind gust. You might consider adding weight (rocks-whatever) into the bag to lower the overall GC.

I was going to stick a 10lbs counterweight in the tray you think that would suffice? Or if I’m traveling maybe a good sized rock

Tony Gondola avatar
Tony Gondola avatar

Anything really….

dummieastro avatar
dummieastro avatar

I ran the same setup TC40, PE160, AM3, counterweight but with the Askar 103apo. Never had any issues. However, two months ago I switched to the skywatcher steel tripod. Rock solid, less possible vibration and my guiding improved by 12%.

CS, Bob

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Eric Miller avatar
Eric Miller avatar

dummieastro · Jul 26, 2026, 06:30 PM

I ran the same setup TC40, PE160, AM3, counterweight but with the Askar 103apo. Never had any issues. However, two months ago I switched to the skywatcher steel tripod. Rock solid, less possible vibration and my guiding improved by 12%.

CS, Bob

and you kept the pe160 pier? its ok?

dummieastro avatar
dummieastro avatar

Yes. Thought about adding the 200 but decided to wait. Your setup is about 3lbs heavier than mine though.

Eric Miller avatar
Eric Miller avatar

dummieastro · Jul 26, 2026 at 08:50 PM

Yes. Thought about adding the 200 but decided to wait. Your setup is about 3lbs heavier than mine though.

Thanks I think I will call mile high Astro and swap to the 200!