JMI Motor Upgrade for Universal Wheeley Bars

The JMI Motor Upgrade adds a motorized drive to your existing Universal Wheeley Bar, converting it into a powered telescope dolly. Rather than pushing or pulling your loaded imaging rig manually, the motor does the work — ideal for heavy setups, long transit distances, limited mobility situations, or backyard observatories where powered roll-out is part of an automated workflow.

Prerequisites — Required Before Ordering

The Motor Upgrade cannot be installed without both of the following already on your Wheeley Bar:

• 10″ Pneumatic Wheel Upgrade — required (motor drives the rear pneumatic wheels)
• Battery Pack Holder — required (motor draws power from a battery mounted on the dolly)

Do not order the Motor Upgrade without confirming both items are already installed on your Wheeley Bar.

Two Versions — Select by Leveling Screw Type

• New Style (TPWMTR-NLS-UPG): For Wheeley Bars with leveling screws that thread through a metal block in the leg — current manufacturing standard.
• Old Style (TPWMTR-OLS-UPG): For Wheeley Bars with leveling screws that thread through a nut welded onto the end of the leg — older manufacturing.

Inspect your Wheeley Bar leg ends to determine which version you have. If unsure, contact us with a photo before ordering.

Who Is This Product Best For?

Observers and imagers with heavy rigs who regularly cover significant distances between storage and observing position — particularly those with physical limitations, very heavy setups, or permanent observatory configurations. Also suited for automated roll-out workflows at semi-permanent dark-sky sites.

Current Availability

The Motor Upgrade is subject to availability and lead times. Contact us before ordering to confirm stock and lead time. We will advise on the correct version for your specific Wheeley Bar model and configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add this to any Wheeley Bar?
Only Universal-style Wheeley Bars (Medium, HD Medium, HD Large) with 10″ pneumatic wheels and a Battery Pack Holder already installed. Not compatible with Dobsonian-style Sky Trekker or Triangle models.

Does it require any wiring or electrical work?
The motor kit is a self-contained add-on that connects to your battery pack on the dolly. No permanent wiring or electrical installation is required beyond the mounting hardware.

What battery pack do I need?
Any standard field astronomy battery pack that fits the Battery Pack Holder and supplies sufficient current. Contact us for specific recommendations based on your setup.