Tailstock question

Re: Tailstock question

john lucas

That's usually either a sign that the tang on the center is too short, or the quill isn't retracting far enough. Just for fun try putting a bolt or something into the end of the live center (if it's hollow) and then try. On my Delta midi my Drill chuck would not fit properly because the morse taper had a tang on the end. I cut it off. It worked perfectly but then wouldn't eject in my Powermatic. threaded the end and added a screw with about 3/8" of an inch of aluminum washer material. Now it works in both lathes.

Re: Tailstock question

Clifton C

Looking at a few General manuals it shows that the end of the quill (lead) screw is what pops out the live center when the quill is fully retracted. So, if you are using a live center that previously worked, either the replacement lead screw is shorter then the original, probably not, but I'd have to pull it out and check. Or, the quill is longer then the original, again, probably not. More then likely, as John said, the quill is not fully retracting.

I would disassemble and make sure the quill slides easily, all the way, into the tailstock (without lead screw, just the quill). Then run the quill onto the lead screw (off the lathe) to make sure it runs all the way on with no hiccups. Sometimes dust and oil get packed by the quill onto the back of the inside of the tailstock and what is needed is a flashlight and a long screwdriver (or wood splint) to scrape it out. Tailstocks don't seem to get much preventive maintenance, but a good cleaning, deburring and lube work wonders...

c

Re: Tailstock question

Clifton C

Adrien,

Any luck ?