iOptron Z-axis Balancing Kit

A truly balanced mount doesn’t stop with RA and DEC. When you're running a heavy imaging train, a long optical tube, or anything asymmetrical, a subtle front-to-back imbalance—known as Z-axis imbalance—can introduce strain, affect tracking precision, and increase guiding errors. The iOptron Z-Axis Balancing Kit (#8439) helps correct that third axis, giving you the fine control needed to get your setup perfectly tuned.

This specially designed kit mounts directly to your dovetail saddle and allows a small counterweight to slide forward or backward, shifting the center of gravity along the vertical (Z) axis. It’s an ideal upgrade for astrophotographers who demand optimal performance, especially when running gear off the back of the scope such as cameras, filter wheels, or rotators.

Key Features:

• Front-to-Back Balance Correction: Fine-tunes Z-axis balance for heavier imaging rigs or unbalanced optical tube setups. Helps reduce mount strain and smooth out tracking.

• Sliding Weight System: Includes a small steel counterweight that slides on a machined aluminum rail. Adjust the position to match your gear configuration, then lock it in place with the tension knob.

• Simple Saddle Mounting: Designed to mount directly to the M8 threaded hole found on select iOptron dovetail saddles. Installation takes just a few minutes with included hardware.

• Clean, Low-Profile Design: Lightweight and unobtrusive. Adds balance control without adding significant mass or interfering with payload clearance.

Compatible Mounts:

This Z-axis kit is designed to fit iOptron mounts that feature an M8 threaded hole on the dovetail saddle or counterweight bar. It is confirmed to work with:

• CEM120

• CEM70

• CEM40 (6" Vixen/Losmandy dual saddle only)

• GEM45 (6" Vixen/Losmandy dual saddle only)

It may also be used with other mounts or setups that include an M8 threaded hole in a suitable mounting location.

Technical Specs:

• Kit Type: Z-axis balance system

• Material: Anodized aluminum base, steel sliding counterweight

• Adjustment Range: Forward/backward movement along the rail

• Weight Compatibility: Fixed included weight (non-interchangeable)

• Mounting: M8 threaded screw (included)

• iOptron Part Number: 8439

Observing Tip:

Z-axis imbalance often goes unnoticed until you push your mount to longer exposures or higher magnification. Even if RA and DEC seem balanced, a front-heavy or rear-heavy scope can introduce tracking drift over time. This kit gives you the missing axis of control to dial in your setup like a pro.

Counterweight

• OD: 49mm
• ID: 12mm
• Thickness: 20mm
• Weight: 292g
• Material: Stainless Steel

CW shaft

• Diameter: 12mm
• Length: 60mm
• Thread: M8X1.25mm (both ends)
• Weight: 48g
• CW shaft end screw: No
• Material: Stainless Steel