Feather Touch 10:1 Ratio dual speed manual focuser upgrade - Takahashi FS-102/...

This Starlight Instruments Feather Touch micro-pinion assembly is a precision-machined dual-speed focuser upgrade for the 2.7" focuser of the Takahashi FS-102/TSA-102/TOA-130 refractors. It is not for use on the 4" focuser version of the TOA-130. The Feather Touch improves the visual and photographic performance of your Takahashi's premium optics by converting the acceptable, but somewhat coarse, single-speed Takahashi 2.7" rack and pinion focuser to the ultra-precision dual-speed focusing pioneered by Starlight Instruments. Starlight has been producing and perfecting the fine focus mechanisms in their Feather Touch reflector and SCT focusers for 15 years and has a well-deserved reputation for producing focusers of unparalleled precision and quality. This new focuser extends Feather Touch precision to Takahashi FS-102 refractors for the first time.

The FT-TV uses the existing Takahashi focusing rack that is mounted on the focuser drawtube, plus the Takahashi single-speed pinion gear shaft. The Takahashi single-speed focusing knobs are not used and are removed from the Takahashi pinion gear shaft. The Takahashi pinion gear shaft is then installed in the Feather Touch 10:1 ratio dual-speed fine focus mechanism. Ten turns of the Feather Touch fine focus knob equals one turn of the coarse focus knob, for ten times the focusing precision of the standard Takahashi focuser. The two large anodized aluminum coarse focus knobs have a knurled rim for superior feel and gripping action. The single concentric anodized aluminum fine focus knob has a smooth inertial feel and is also knurled for a sure grip, even when wearing gloves in cold weather.

The reduction assembly is precision-machined from hardened stainless steel for improved reliability and toughness (rather than the softer and wear-prone aluminum gearing used on lesser focusers). An ultra-low backlash system provides accurate control. The 12 ounce laser-engraved pinion housing is sleek and precisely machined, with no sharp corners or edges to snag clothing.

All materials are the best available and no short cuts in design or fabrication are ever taken. Anodized aluminum with a brushed silver finish is used for corrosion protection in the body and knobs. The stainless steel reduction gear will virtually never wear out or degrade with age or use. The focuser is easy to install and adjustable for reliable and optimum performance.