Best kind of steel for lathe leadscrew?

Question

Hi guys,I am going to have to machine a new leadscrew for a Myford Super 7I've recently acquired. This existing one is visibly worn and if it'sbad enough to be visible to the unaided eye, I figure it needsreplacing. I plan to do this job on my good ol' South Bend 9a.Question is, can I get away with ordinary mild steel for this screw?If not, I've been offered a bar of something called EN8 at not too badprice. What do you think?Also, will the half nuts need to be replaced as well?Thanks.p.

Snag · Accepted Answer

Acme thread ? You might be better off buying a piece that's already threaded . And if the leadscrew is that worn chances are the half nuts are too ...

charl · Answer

This site has some info and photos...

phaedrus · Answer

Thanks, guys.What about the correct steel to use for the new 'screw? Anysuggestions?

Karl Townsend · Answer

It would last a long time with anything you have on hand. or buyMcmater carr W1 grade

Jim Wilkins · Answer

drill rod machines well. 12L14 may give you the smoothest non-abrading finish.jsw

dcaster · Answer

Are you planning on using the old worn lead screw to machine the new screw? Or do you have another lathe to use. I would buy some acme threaded rod from MSC or McMaster even if I had a second lathe. The purchased screw can be bought to various specs for accuracy and would be more accurate than any lead screw made on a well used lathe.

Dan

etpm · Answer

If you can't find or don't want to use stock acme threaded rod then I would suggest using "Stressproof" which is 1144. This steel alloy machines well, much better than mild steel. 12L14, aka Ledloy, machines even easier than 1144 but is not as resistant to wear. Eric

F. George McDuffee · Answer

Some people what been there and done that...

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A few sources

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Good luck and let the group know how things turn out.

phaedrus · Answer

Will do, and thanks for all the suggestions, guys.P.F. George McDuffee wrote:

Pete S · Answer

You might try this company:Pete Stanaitis---------------

Best kind of steel for lathe leadscrew?

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