Finally got around to making something in the Myford ML7 last week. I had to make 2 pads to replace ones missing on my g-clamps.
I had no proper stock but I found an old agricultural bolt/pin the right diameter and started with it. Unfortunately I hit 'hard spots' in the metal that the tool didn't cut properly. I cut the bolt back a bit and started again, this time with more success, producing a finished item.
It was then I discovered the limitations of a small lathe - I just couldn't get it to part off! It was vibrating a lot then the tool would jam and the motor belt would slip, despite being tight. I ended up sawing it off and facing off the cut end.
When I went to do the second one I hit a lot more 'hard spots', even getting sparks from the cutting tool! I went searching & I found a 5' length of stock the correct diameter hidden at the back of the steel pile. This stuff proved to be a lot easier to cut, though it was coming off in small chips instead of the long curls I was getting from the old bolt. I tried parting this one off but still no success.
Here is the finished article.
Fitted to the clamps, ready for painting.
I think I need to visit a decent steel stockists and get a selection of round stock. Anything I have is old, rusty & unknown type of steel.
I had no proper stock but I found an old agricultural bolt/pin the right diameter and started with it. Unfortunately I hit 'hard spots' in the metal that the tool didn't cut properly. I cut the bolt back a bit and started again, this time with more success, producing a finished item.
It was then I discovered the limitations of a small lathe - I just couldn't get it to part off! It was vibrating a lot then the tool would jam and the motor belt would slip, despite being tight. I ended up sawing it off and facing off the cut end.
When I went to do the second one I hit a lot more 'hard spots', even getting sparks from the cutting tool! I went searching & I found a 5' length of stock the correct diameter hidden at the back of the steel pile. This stuff proved to be a lot easier to cut, though it was coming off in small chips instead of the long curls I was getting from the old bolt. I tried parting this one off but still no success.
Here is the finished article.
Fitted to the clamps, ready for painting.
I think I need to visit a decent steel stockists and get a selection of round stock. Anything I have is old, rusty & unknown type of steel.