MadModder
The Shop => Tools => Topic started by: jgroom on October 05, 2009, 12:56:34 AM
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Hi all! Well I finally got a chance to work on a tool instead of moving it. For quite some time I've wanted to upgrade to the large south bend dials. So I started Ed Godwins upgrade http://www.wswells.com/projects/projects_index.html (http://www.wswells.com/projects/projects_index.html) which includes adding thrust bearings.
Started on the bearing housing....
(http://i994.photobucket.com/albums/af62/jgroom/comp1.jpg)
Started threading....
(http://i994.photobucket.com/albums/af62/jgroom/comp2.jpg)
Now to test the fit..... :doh: No 9/16-18 nut, or die, or even a tap to make a gauge. :bang:
After a couple smokes and some head scratching I reasoned that as long as I didn't move the tool post or alter the gear train I should be able to remove the compound, check the fit, and reassemble without losing the thread. :scratch:
So pulled the compound screw, pulled the compound off it's dovetail, checked the fit (too tight!), reassembled, and amazingly picked up the thread right away. :clap:
Took off a thou or two more (still too tight!), repeated above process to the point of lining up the thread dial and :bang: :bang: :bang:
Somehow I'd managed to disengage the dial! :( Thus ensued about two hours of fiddling, refiddling, and general butchering of the poor thread I'd started. Finally ended up with something that looked like a thread, only uglier.
But...
(http://i994.photobucket.com/albums/af62/jgroom/comp3.jpg)
It fits :bugeye: No shakes, no rattles, and no wobbling! :D
Can't machine the other end until I get the screw made. Hmmmm, first step - cut a 3/8-10 Acme thread. :hammer: I believe I'm done for the night!
Cheers
Jeff
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Hi Jeff
Great start :thumbup: the south bend lathe is one machine I've always had a great admiration off, great machine and an interesting thread look forward to following your project,
Have fun
Stew