Since I built the QCTP , I've discovered a whole new set of capabilities for my 72+ year old PowerKraft lathe . I already had a 1 hp motor on it , because it was free ... It started with a boring bar clamp post , and it is so much more rigid than the lantern . Less singin' and a nicer finish . Then I made the QCTP , and got a few 5/16" shank indexable cutters . I can cut a bigger chip faster with a better finish in most cases now . So I just ordered a 7 holder set of indexable boring bars and threading and cutoff/grooving tool holders . And a supply of inserts , because sure as night follows day I'm going to tear up a few while I'm learning how to use this stuff . Wish me luck !
Tools for the new century ...
Aug 01, 2024
Last reply: 1 year ago
4 Replies
If you ever need a little more rigidity eliminate the compound. Replace it with a solid block of steel ground flat.
Sometimes I crank the compound all the way out and snug the gib screws a bit more . The biggest source of flex was the lantern toolpost and the quick change has eliminated almost all of it . Parting off is still sometimes iffy , but ya just can't have everything .
I didn't mean throw it away. Just only install it when you need it.
Oh I knew that . I was just saying that I've gotten the rigidity I've needed - up til now and that may change with the new tooling - By backing the compound all the way out . A lot of people think these small lathes don't have the rigidity to run carbide tooling effectively . My personal experience sez "that jest ain't so" .
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