Carefully remove the microptic read-out eyepiece assembly. Watch for small shim washers behind the flange; these set the focal distance to the glass circles.
models) requires careful alignment to ensure the instrument fits into its custom-fitted steel or metal case without damaging the delicate optics or glass circles. www.mathsinstruments.me.uk Repacking Instructions Prepare the Instrument Level the Telescope
Take high-resolution digital photographs at every single stage of disassembly.
A "repack" of a theodolite rarely means just replacing grease; it often involves cleaning out hardened, decades-old lubricant. Necessary Tools and Materials
The metal cylinder in the corner of many original cases is designed specifically to hold the plumb bob weight and string. Seal the Case Lower the top half (hood) of the case over the instrument. hilger watts theodolite manual repack
It sounds like you’re looking for a of an operator’s or service manual for a Hilger Watts theodolite .
Soak the foot screws and the threaded brass bushings in mineral spirits.
This is the foundational step for accurate measurements. The tripod must be stable and the instrument properly attached.
By methodically dismantling, cleaning, and repacking the main bearings, centers, and leveling heads, users can restore the fluid, precise drag characteristic of mid-century British optical metrology. 🛠️ Essential Toolkit and Workspace Setup Carefully remove the microptic read-out eyepiece assembly
In the morning he began to read more carefully. There were repair lists—brass polish, leather replacement, lubricants of precise viscosity—and a half-page on etiquette: “When repacking a theodolite for another, note prior errors; be generous with spares.” John made a list, then drove into town to buy the specified oil and a spool of red linen thread.
[Too Much Grease] ----> Migrates to Optics ----> Blurs Vision / Ruins Glass [Too Little Grease] ---> Metal-on-Metal Drag --> Causes Wear / Jerky Movements [Correct Amount] ------> Micro-Layer on Axis ----> Smooth, Dampened Rotation Lubricating the Vertical and Horizontal Axes
: Lubricate the tangent and clamp adjusting screws to ensure fine adjustments remain fluid. 4. Reassembly and Testing
Soak metal components (never optics) to loosen the gunk. Use a soft toothbrush or cotton swabs to clear the teeth of the horizontal and vertical circles. Seal the Case Lower the top half (hood)
The was a ritual of precision. He began by locking the horizontal and vertical circles, ensuring the glass scales wouldn't jar during storage. He cleaned the leveling base—the tribrach—until the three leveling screws turned with buttery smoothness. Next came the internal optics; he checked that the micrometers were set to zero, preventing tension on the delicate internal springs.
Use a high-quality, temperature-stable grease (e.g., synthetic instrument grease ). 2. Disassembly & Cleaning
Reassemble and verify that the spring plungers travel back and forth with uniform resistance without sticking. 📐 Post-Repack Calibration and Testing
Ensuring the line of sight is perfectly aligned with the mechanical axes. Resources and Guides
Lightly moisten an optical lens tissue with reagent-grade cleaner or pure isopropyl alcohol. Wipe the surfaces gently in a single direction.