Tripod Spreader for Celestron NexStar 4SE

thingiverse

So, I bought a second-hand Celestron NexStar 4E - it is in pretty good condition, but is missing the spreader which firms up the tripod legs - so i decided to make one. My 3D Printer has a build area of 100 mm x 100 mm, so it needed to be made in several components, so I decided to design it as a collapsible unit, which can fold away when the tripod is collapsed. Print 1 x Central Hub and 3 x Spokes, then join them using 3 x 3 mm bolts. Install on the central rod under the Tripod Mount, then install the spring, and finally the tensioning knob. Wind up the knob until the spreader spokes engage firmly against the tripod legs - don't over-tension, or you can break the spokes. You should find the tripod is a lot more rigid when the legs are locked into position. To fold away the tripod, wind back on the knob, and then the spokes can be folded up between the tripod legs.