20 year old cross slide lock mod still in use weekly.

[GDL264]

I rediscovered this forum today and though it's not nearly as busy as 20 years ago I thought I would contribute with something I use on my lathe most every time I use it. At the time I was a complete newby when I restored and repainted my 10L lathe with help from this forum. I always wished it had the taper attachment option basically only for the cross slide lock. One evening I designed a simple one my self using the lathe and an Enco Mill Drill I also just finished modding up with this forum. It works as a lock but also you can put "drag" on it that really refines the cuts I found. I also fitted a simple Dial holder that give you a cross measurements. I did change the clamping rod to brass later to make it even smoother if I recall. I also made a common carriage lock w/dial. Here are the old 300 dpi photos that I found today and they are kind of self explanatory. The last 2 photos shows what 20 years of of garage hobbyist use looks like today.

 

[GDL264]

Wow again, I just realized I posted this mod years ago and I have no recollection at all. Also, I have no clue how I made the taper in my stainless lock lever. I know I made it that way to match the tailstock handle. I guess my brain deleted it. I have been posting to often tonight, time to take another 13 years off lol.

 

[animal12]

So does it lock the cross slide so you don't have to tighten the gibb screws to stop movement ?
thanks
animal

 

[GDL264]

Not totally sure what you mean but it restricts or locks the forward to back movement, I forget the names of the parts. It works exactly the same way as the the factory taper attachment lock. I use the lock mainly when making the final polishing cut to get a mirror finish or also helps when using a boring bar, duplicating etc. You have the compound cranked all the way forward to lock it and you set the depths with the dial, kind of a poor man's dro. I would never go without it after having all this time. I am 100% self taught so I probably am doing it wrong. but I usually get the part made I need.