Greetings, , However unlikely, a second washer may have? been added because the bolt it too long or the washer was too thin. For what it's worth, washers are used to increase the surface area of the bolt's head and holding strength. Replacing the inside washer with a plastic washer will allow the axis to pivot without marring the anodized head. Some folks get worked up over visible wear. I would recommend Teflon or Delrin washers as nylon becomes brittle and will need to be replaced from time to time. Additionally, I'd suggest adding a Teflon washer to both bolts, both sides + add them to your Azimuth locking knobs. Size it the same as one of the existing washers: ? With a lightly snug bolts, you will easily adjust the altitude while minimizing the load on the brass gears. Win, win. Once aligned to Polaris, tighten them down. As mentioned, FWIW - Ernie
Drifting