How to Add a Counterweight to Your EXOS2-GT Mount
By TelescopesPlus - The #1 Online Store for Telescopes and Accessories | Published: 2026-10-28
Category: How-to Guides
Learn when and how to add an extra counterweight to your EXOS2-GT mount for better balance and stability, especially with heavier telescope setups.
Quick answer
Add an extra counterweight to your EXOS2-GT mount when your telescope setup exceeds the included 9.9 lb. weight. Attach it to the counterweight shaft, slide it to balance, and lock it securely.
Why you might need an extra counterweight
The EXOS2-GT mount ships with one 9.9 lb. counterweight, which is fine for many scopes. But if you add a heavier optical tube, a finder, a camera, or other accessories, the mount can become front-heavy. An unbalanced mount strains the motors, reduces tracking accuracy, and can cause vibrations that blur astrophotography images.
Adding a second counterweight—like the Explore Scientific 9.9 lb. Counterweight for EXOS2-GT—gives you more range to balance the load. It also lets you position the weights closer to the mount, which reduces the moment arm and improves stability.
Trade-offs to consider
An extra counterweight adds total weight to your setup, making it heavier to transport and set up. You'll also need to rebalance the mount each time you change equipment. For most users, the improved tracking and reduced wear on the mount outweigh these minor inconveniences.
How to add a counterweight to your EXOS2-GT mount
- Check your current balance: With the mount unclutched, release the RA and DEC axes and see which way the telescope moves. If it swings down, you need more counterweight. Always do this with the mount powered off and the scope capped.
- Attach the extra counterweight: Slide the extra counterweight onto the counterweight shaft, after the existing weight. Tighten the locking screw firmly so it doesn't slip during slewing. Ensure the screw is snug but not over-tightened to avoid stripping threads.
- Slide and lock for balance: Move the weights along the shaft until the telescope stays in any position without drifting. Then lock the counterweight screws securely. Recheck balance after adding any new accessory to your scope.
- Test tracking and stability: Power on the mount and perform a quick slew in both axes. Listen for unusual motor strain and observe whether the view settles quickly. If you see vibration, rebalance and ensure all screws are tight.
Product facts
- Explore Scientific 9.9 lb. Counterweight for EXOS2-GT Mount - EXOS2CW: The Explore Scientific 9.9 lb. Counterweight for EXOS2-GT Mount is made specifically for the EXOS2-GT mount and matches it perfectly. A dedicated counterweight ensures a secure fit on the shaft, preventing wobble and ensuring consistent balance.
Explore Scientific 9.9 lb. Counterweight for EXOS2-GT Mount - EXOS2CW
