I have a new Bison 8" 3 jaw chuck that seems to have a lot of friction when turning the scroll. The torque to turn the chuck wrench measures ~36 inch-pounds. The scroll can be turned w/ one hand on the chuck wrench but it is really a two hand process. I thought lathe chucks adjust pretty freely, but then I don't think I've ever used a brand new chuck. My question is, is this considered normal for new?
Some history: I called Bison (Toolmex); they said "it should turn freely--send it back", so that is what I did (Enco). The 2nd chuck has a similar amount of friction. So this time I measured it (36 in-lb), thinking, "there must be a spec for this", but when I called Toolmex again they didn't know what to do w/ that number and couldn't get an answer from the factory. They said send this one back, too, but I'm wondering if that is pointless. Either the friction is normal, or there was a bad batch of chucks. Guidance appreciated.
Other info: The chuck was packed in oil, w/ plenty of grease in the scroll ? no cosmoline. Chuck is unmounted. Removing the jaws makes little if any difference-?the friction seems to be between the scroll ID and the chuck body. In addition to the friction, there is some noticeable roughness due to the engagement of the individual teeth between the pinions and scroll ring gear.
Can anyone who can shed some light on this, esp. how much torque is considered normal for a good, new 8" chuck? Thanks, David