Radford Retractable Tool Holder

[lockstocknbarrel]

One of my projects that was put aside to build the tram tool was this puppy a retractable tool holder designed by a Kiwi (New Zealander) for the younger ones to fit my Dixon Tool Holder.

See the link to a description of the tool the only change I have made is to build the tool 7075 aircraft aluminium.
http://www.hemingwaykits.com/acatalog/Retracting_Tool_Holder.html

I went to my Model Engineer collection and the complete build how to is in Vol 147 #3668 #3669 #3670 let me know if you want plans I my be able to scan and send.   

I also purchased the book Improvements & Accessories for your Lathe by J A Radford ISBN No 1 85761 105 5
First off I designed the whole tool in Solidworks CAD to orientate myself on the true design and the how to make it properly stage, here is where I am at up to this point.

Having now seen the new lift up screw cutting tool buy the gurus on this site i am now kicking myself,................................ no I'll just have to build one of them as well.

[Ned Ludd]

Certainly a flip/swing up tool holder is easier to build and use, if you have an instant reversing lathe, but take heart for early in the new year plans will be published in EIM for a self reversing lead screw attachment. This is a device that automatically reverses the lead screw between two set limits and with  a retracting tool holder will make screw cutting  very much easier.
Ned

[Fergus OMore]

Err, GHT and MEWM?????

[Miner]

To add one more to your list, George Thomas's book, The Model Engineers Workshop Manual ISBN 1-85761-000-8 has a design for a retracting tool holder.

Pete