Since the introduction of the 1200 German Equatorial in 1992, we have offered successive generations with improvements in both the mechanical construction and drive system. Since our design and production staff includes experienced CCD imagers, we are continually pushing the mounts to the limits of performance. Equally important, our customers have offered valuable feedback and suggestions throughout the years.

We are pleased to offer a variety of upgrades and spare parts so that you can obtain maximum performance from the 1200 mount that you own. Some of these upgrades are available for all 1200s and some are appropriate to particular models, but not others. Please check the product descriptions carefully to determine if a particular upgrade or component can be used with your mount. If you are confused by the DA, QMD, SMD and GTO designations of the 1200 mounts, please refer to a brief history of all 1200 models. If you require a spare part not listed below, please do not hesitate to call.

This adapter replaces the polar axis rear plate on the 1200 mount, allowing use of our Right-Angle Polar Alignment Scope (RAPAS). The RAPAS can be used with all 1200 mounts (except the original black mounts). This adapter is push/pull adjustable for precise alignment. Once adjusted, it will retain its precision, allowing the polar alignment scope to be removed and re-inserted as needed. Please see this link for additional information.

This kit contains four machined and black anodized Pier Adapter Knobs and 5/16 " ID x 1.5" OD flat washers. If you do not purchase one of our pier adapters shown above, for instance, if you purchase the Monolith Pier from Particle Wave Technologies, you will need these knobs to attach your 1200 mount to the Monolith.

The kit can also be purchased as spares if you lose or damage the knobs that came with your Standard Pier Adapter (1200SPA) Hi-Lo Latitude Wedge Assembly (1200WDGA) or Precision-Adjust Rotating Pier Adapter (1200RPA). Please note, a complete set is included with your pier adapter when you purchase it.

Mounts: All 1200 mount models (HDA, QMD, SMD and GTO) that have been produced.

The height was increased by 3/4" (19mm) to allow more room for your hand when tightening the rear knob or adjusting the altitude. We also eliminated the sharp corner to prevent the possibility of the cords catching. It looks a bit spiffier as well. For future reference, here are photos of the previous polar fork assemblies and the new version.

Mounts: All 1200 mount models (DA, QMD, SMD and GTO) that have been produced.
Note: This Tall Polar Fork Assembly Upgrade is now included on all new 1200GTO Mounts and does not need to be added to a new 1200GTO purchase.

Instructions: Upgrade Replacement of 1200GTO Polar Forks S1200PF-B (PDF file). These instructions show the 1200GTO, however are applicable to all models.

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Individuals who own the very earliest 1200 mounts may want to consider upgrading to this more substantial altitude assembly. For your reference, we provide photos of the previous altitude adjuster assembly and the new version. You may also consider purchasing just the Altitude Adjustor Brace (12ALBKIT) described below.

Includes: Our part# S1200AA-A and four 1/4-20 x 3/4" socket head cap screws. Installation Instructions

Mounts: All 1200 mount models (DA, QMD, SMD and GTO) that have been produced.
Note: This Heavy Duty Altitude Adjuster Upgrade is now included on all new 1200GTO Mounts and does not need to be added to a new 1200GTO purchase.

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Redesigned RA Motor Bracket with built-in spring-loaded action that will place the worm gear into mesh with adequate force to allow proper tracking, but not too much force to cause binding.

Includes: Our part# M12270-B, two F0009 shoulder bolts and Instructions.

Mounts: All GTO and SMD 1200 mount models that have been produced. 1200GTO mounts with serial #1200572 and earlier (confirm that replacement has not been done).

Note: This RA Motor Bracket Upgrade is now included on all new 1200GTO Mounts and does not need to be added to a new 1200GTO purchase.

Top and Bottom Images:

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Redesigned Declination Motor Bracket with built-in spring-loaded action that will place the worm gear into mesh with adequate force to allow proper tracking, but not too much force to cause binding.

Includes: Our part# M12560-B, two M12673 modified shoulder bolts and instructions.

Mounts that can be upgraded: All GTO and SMD 1200 mount models that have been produced. 1200GTO mounts with serial #1200572 and earlier (confirm that replacement has not been done).

Note: This Declination Motor Bracket Upgrade is now included on all new 1200GTO Mounts and does not need to be added to a new 1200GTO purchase.

Top and Bottom Images:

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If you operate your mount remotely and are concerned about cables snagging on the RA clutch knobs, you may wish to remove them and substitute our modified set screws. Please do not attempt to install standard set screws, since they must be a particular length and profile to work properly. If you install the modified screws, you will have to use the 5/32" allen-head wrench from the set included with your mount to loosen and tighten them. Please tighten evenly with respect to the opposing clutch knob and do not over tighten. These set screws are only necessary for the side of the mount that has the cable. The normal clutch knobs will remain on the other side. Please note that each mount requires only 2 modified clutch set screws.

You can see a photo of this screw in place in the lower right-hand photograph under the DOVEKBREP product description.

Mounts: All 1200 mount models (DA, QMD, SMD and GTO) that have been produced.
Note: This is an optional item and is not included with new 1200GTO purchases.

Please note that shipping on this item is extra.

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To reduce the possibility of a cable snag while operating your mount remotely, you may wish to remove one of the dovetail knobs that secure the Dec axis to the R.A. axis, and substitute it with our replacement assembly.  The assembly would only be needed for the side of the mount that has the cable.  The standard dovetail knob will remain on the other side.  You will only need to purchase one per mount.

Use the 3/16" allen-head wrench included with your mount to install and adjust tightness. Tighten to approximately the same tension as the corresponding knob on the other side.

WARNING: Do not over-tighten the knob replacement assembly!

Note that a small portion of the assembly will protrude from the side of the mount. This is normal and should not interfere with the mount cable during remote operation.

Please refer to the image at the right.

Engraving on the name plate has been changed to "Astro-Physics 1200GTO Servo Drive". The original SMD (servo motor drive, but not go-to) and GTO (servo motor drive with goto) versions of the mount shared the same name plate "Astro-Physics 1200 Servo Drive". Note that the GTO designation was not there. We decided to more clearly identify the mount and offer the new name plates to prior GTO owners, as well. You will need two name plates, one for either side of the Dec. axis. Please note that they are priced each.

Mounts: 1200GTO only. We will request the serial number of your mount when you order to ensure that this is the proper name plate for your mount.

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If you are upgrading your 1200GTO from the GTOCP1 Control Box and plan to attach it to the RA axis, you will need this adapter kit. It features a dovetail attachment so that the GTOCP4 (with the CBA912KIT attached) or GTOCP3 control box can be easily removed. Simply loosen the two thumbscrews and lift the control box from its position. We also provide two set screws if you prefer to use them.

If you wish to mount the new control box on the side of the pier, consider the Pier/Tripod Control Box Adapter (CBAPT).

Includes: Our part# M12622-A, two 8-32 x 1/4" socket set screws, two 8-32 x 3/8" thumbscrews (to use in place of the set screws, if desired) and two 10-32 x 3/8" socket buttonhead screws.

Mounts: 1200GTO only. We will request the serial number of your mount when you order to ensure that this adapter can be used with your mount.

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One of these aluminum covers is included with all new mount purchases, but now they are available separately for anyone who needs one.