Brian Chuchla
02-07-2006, 2:18 AM
I happened upon my grandfather's lathe this past Christmas. It is the some one my father used while growing up. I recall using it once before, and it is quite the mess, it seems to throw oil as it is turning. This would not really be that much of an issue if I were using a traditional workshop. Unfortunately, I happen to only have access locally to my apartment, and those flat white walls might not look so good with a stripe of oil down them.
What I really grabbed the lathe for was my interest trying to get into a little pen turning. I am looking for creative ways that I might be able to do this with my current setup. I know that I cannot use a standard MT mandrel which I guess is the "proper" way to go about this. The headstock consists of a stepped pulley, which is fastened to the spindle, the end of the spindle has the (forgive the terminology) spur drive attached to the spindle via a set screw. I suppose I could turn the pieces, then subsequently drill them out, but I am worried about my accuracy of drilling on center, especially considering my apartment woodshop. I have attached a photo of the "business end" of the machine, in case anyone might have a few ideas.
If all goes well maybe I can begin turning pens, then venture over to "the dark side" and add some of that custom laser engraving we do so well. Thanks.
What I really grabbed the lathe for was my interest trying to get into a little pen turning. I am looking for creative ways that I might be able to do this with my current setup. I know that I cannot use a standard MT mandrel which I guess is the "proper" way to go about this. The headstock consists of a stepped pulley, which is fastened to the spindle, the end of the spindle has the (forgive the terminology) spur drive attached to the spindle via a set screw. I suppose I could turn the pieces, then subsequently drill them out, but I am worried about my accuracy of drilling on center, especially considering my apartment woodshop. I have attached a photo of the "business end" of the machine, in case anyone might have a few ideas.
If all goes well maybe I can begin turning pens, then venture over to "the dark side" and add some of that custom laser engraving we do so well. Thanks.