For visual observing, the accuracy of the tracking is not that important. For short exposures, platform accuracy will not be factor for acceptable wide field pictures. As exposures get longer and closer to the pole, accuracy needs to be greater. I discovered that my first platform was not good enough to take pictures of M31. Declination corrections showed up as field rotation in the photos. I could keep the stars in the center of the image from streaking, but the edges of the image showed star trails. Here are a few things I learned that might help others.
A platform that will be used for long astrophotography must keep the center of the south bearing rotating exactly on its center. If any movement occurs, then correction is needed in 2 planes. To see if your platform is good enough for photography, use the tracking alignment procedure, then continue troubleshooting below.
If the test shows the that the position of Polaris is not repeatable when switching from fast forward to fast reverse, you most likely have a problem holding your south bearing on it's center. If Polaris oscillates up and down (real word) during the fast-forward, then you have a problem with bearing smoothness, drive wheel centering, or drive screw forces pushing up on the north runner. An oscillation caused by bearing smoothness or drive wheel centering will be repeatable from fast forward to fast forward.
If you are using a drive screw, disconnect it. Manually fast forward and fast reverse the platform. If the performance improves, look for forces being applied from the drive screw (usually up and down).
