Spindle bearings

[Kram]

I'd like to make a small drilling spindle for lathe, probably using an ER collet holder as they are cheap and I have collets... or a drill chuck (turning a taper might be beyond my skills right now).

Question is bearings, and whether the spindle and holder needs to be threaded to preload them. If Im using just to drill, ball bearings adequate with a press fit? If I want milling it gets a bit more complicated. Other things Id like to make a small bench grinder for sharpening tools and some other spindle type things.

All of this is beyond my skill right now but Id like to read up on it.

 

[MattH]

grab a copy of this book:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Spindles-Workshop-Practice-Harprit-Sandhu/dp/1854861492

well worth a read.

 

[AndyStobbs]

I would use taper rollers and thread it for certain. Cutting the thread is easy compared to the socket taper.

 

[Pete.]

Stick an opposed pair of pre-loaded angular contact bearings up front and a single floating ball bearing on the tail end of the spindle. It'll be good for drilling and milling alike.