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C3 mini lathe bed and gibs

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28ten:
Like quite a few people i own a mini lathe, size wise it is more than adequate for my current needs, but as others have found the finish is a little rough.
the first thing I think I need to sort is the bed, I have read and re read bogstandard's post   :bow: and I have a similar problem, however I don't have a mill  :( I have read other accounts that suggest filing and/or lapping the high spots.
so the question is has anybody else tried lapping? I am wondering if I should just bite the bullet and get it sorted by a local machine shop?
Any views most welcome!

Bernd:
28ten,

Lapping takes a while since it only removes very little metal. Filing by hand I would think will leave an uneven surface. So that leaves choice #3. Take it to somebody that has a mill.

I don't think I'd want to mess it up by filing or lapping.

This is strictly my opinion as to what I would do.

BTW I have one of those small lathes and it's in need fo that kind of work and I'm hoping as the cooler season od autum and winter get here that will be on the top of the list to do.

Regards,
Bernd

bogstandard:
As Bernd has said, filing and lapping over that length would take a rather long time, plus the fact it is really a very skilled job to get right.

I don't know what the local workshops charge in your area, but I wouldn't expect to get any change out of 100 squid, and maybe a lot more. A cheap rate workshop usually charges 60 squid an hour, and that includes set up times and parts of an hour as well.

You live a fair way from me, I live in Crewe, Cheshire.

If you got the inkling to bring just the bare casting across, I could have the machine ready to drop it onto. The setup and machining should take less than a couple of hours, which means if you got here fairly early (before 11am), you could take it away with you as soon as it is finished.

My charges are rather expensive, a doggy chew for Bandit would just about cover it.


Bogs

28ten:
Bogs
thank you for your most kind offer, I shall ring round a few local places and see what they say.  I could go via Merryhell and drop the wife and kids off which might get me some brownie points :D
What flavour doggie chew is best?

bogstandard:
Postman is OK, but he really prefers double glazing salesman flavour (kneecap and below), he is only a small dog after all, and has never tasted anything higher. Except for when we had a visit from some boy sprouts, he really licked into them.

PM me if and when.

Bogs

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