Head position

[dennis kranz]

Do I have to keep the head of the lathe over a leg? Or can it sit almost in the middle of the bed most of the time. Jet 1642.
Dennis

[Steve Schlumpf]

Dennis - I usually keep mine close to the halfway point just cause the legs are out of my way and it is easier for me to stand there. When I turn bowls or buff - I move the headstock all the way to the end of the bed - sure saves your back!

[alex carey]

pretty sure it doesn't really matter, might matter for vibration dampening but really not a huge deal.

[Cyril Griesbach]

The headstock on that lathe moves as a convenience to the turner not the lathe.

[Ryan Baker]

You can use it wherever you want. Mine is usually near the middle, except when I am hollowing interiors, in which case it is at the right end. I haven't noticed any difference in vibration at all based on the head location.