A boring table for a Craftsman 12" lathe

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vtsteam:
Spent a little while today adjusting the gib -- had to mill a small amount off because even though the table fit on the saddle and the proper surfaces were in bearing, the gib was slightly cocked. It was just a couple thou too wide. So without gib screws it leaned, which allowed the table to set down on the ways and look right, but not be right.

Anyway, clocked the gib in the vise on the mill and skimmed it 5 thou. After that everything fit well and it was time to drill for gib screws.

I wanted 4 but I didn't want them to end up where they would interfere with the table surface hold down screws (yet to be added). So they needed to be located roughly where the present channels are milled into the table. This meant 3 screws or 5 screws, and thinking 3 were too widely spaced, I went with 5. Kind of overkill but, well, it certainly doesn't hurt anything.

Drilling:

vtsteam:
I checked the original cross slide gib screws and found they were 1/4"-28 -- fine thread. Pretty tight clearance to the bottom of the slide -- not a lot of meat there -- the dovetail is 5/16. But enough I guess, so I followed suit.

Picked up the little trick from DoubleBoost's videos of running the mill with the tap in it, switching off and lowering the quill into the hole to start the thread. Worked great. Thanks John! :thumbup:

vtsteam:
And finally today, added screws, set the table on the apron, tightened for light contact, and proceeded to slide, then yank at the table. Sliding went smoothly, no movement when I tried to force it to the side, not a click. Nice solid fit.

The screws are a little short for adding lock nuts and taking up wear in the future, so I'll have to head back to town tomorrow to pick up longer, ones. But all in all, well pleased today.

awemawson:
Excellent result Steve. Not only looks good but is good :wave:

tom osselton:
Very nice this is one project I will have to do my clausing doesn't have the slotted table either or a follow rest thanks for showing!

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