Meade ETX-90 Finder Scope Angled Sidemount

One of the frequent complaints about the Meade ETX series is that the finder scopes are virtually impossible to use because of how close the standard mount is to the eyepiece and the barrel of the scope.  This mount fixes that.  First, however, you must:

• Have an ETX-90 optical tube assembly (OTA)-- I do not believe this will work for other apertures due to the different OTA diameters
• Have demounted your ETX-90 from the fork arms, or have a spotting scope version (the mount attaches to the location of the left arm)
• Have a 30mm diameter finder to fit inside the ring (the stock 8x21 finder that the ETX series came with is 30mm)

The model also requires:

• Two ¾" 6-32 machine screws (a bit shorter is OK, longer is not; washers are a good idea) to attach the mount
• Six 15mm M3 machine screws (longer is OK, and a bit shorter is OK, too) and six matching nuts
• Tools to assemble

To print, choose your filament.  I used PETG for a bit more temperature resistance, but PLA and PLA+ would both be fine unless you routinely use or store your rig in hot locations.  ABS and other filaments will work fine, too – this isn't a filament-sensitive model.  15% infill is sufficient, though more won't hurt.  No supports are required; orient the flat face down on the print bed.

Assembly is pretty simple.  

1. Slide a nut into one of the three channels ringing the tube holder until it lines up with one of the six holes.  
2. Run an M3 screw through the nut until it just barely sticks out inside the tube holder.  
3. Repeat five more times for the other five holes in the tube holder.
4. Attach the entire assembly to the left side (looking from the rear of the ETX-90 tube) of the rear portion of the OTA, where the mount arms would go using the two 6-32 screws.  Note that there's a hole through the arm for your screwdriver to attach the upper screw.
5. Slide a 30mm finder into the tube holder and screw the M3 screws down.  Align with the OTA using your method of choice.

Enjoy not smashing your nose, or at least not smashing it on the back of the OTA.

Is your OTA still in its mount, but you still have an overwhelming desire not to bash your nose?  Try this extended arm assembly which mounts to the stock finder scope location.