SB9B Headstock Wick Replacement

[QuickChange]

Going to ask a probably dumb question here on replacing spindle wicks, try not to judge me too much Thinking about replacing the headstock spindle wicks on my 1940's 9B. Although the lathe is extremely "low mileage" (I'm the 2nd owner), after approx sixty years, I figured its about time to do it. Bearing clearances are fine, and I wanted opinions on whether it is strictly necessary to loosen the spindle bearing "clamp" bolts (or not) prior to removing the spindle. I really don't anticipate fuzzing with the clearances/shims, and really don't want to disturb the current (undoubtedly "factory")settings. Just want to clean things up a bit, and replace the spindle wicks. Is it OK to do it like this, or is it a "must do" to loosen those two clamp bolts before spindle removal just on account of because...?

 

[BDRetz]

I would loosen them prior to pushing the spindle out. I don’t think the bolts or shims need to be removed completely.

Before you disassemble it, I would take a 12” long piece of 3/4” diameter round stock and turn down the first 1” or so to 1/2” diameter or max size that will fit in your tailstock drill chuck. Use this piece during reassembly. Put the piece in the tailstock chuck and slide the spindle over it. You can use the tailstock as a third hand when you are putting everything back together. If you are going to swap to a continuous serpentine belt, now is the time to install that as well.

Hope this helps.

Ben

 

[4GSR]

You don't need to loosen the clamps per say. Don't disturb the shim stacks. They are a nightmare to reinstall if you do. Learn that from experience. Also rotate the bull gear until you get the spindle key on top dead center before pressing on the spindle to remove. That way you don't drag the key thru the bore of the front bearing. When you reinstall, be sure to hold down the spring loaded felt wicks with tooth picks, not steel wire. Don't ask me why, that is what my dad directed me to do. Lubricate the bore of the bull gear before installing. And I like the idea of using the tailstock as a press to install the spindle. Ken

 

[QuickChange]

You don't need to loosen the clamps per say. Don't disturb the shim stacks. They are a nightmare to reinstall if you do. Learn that from experience. Also rotate the bull gear until you get the spindle key on top dead center before pressing on the spindle to remove. That way you don't drag the key thru the bore of the front bearing. When you reinstall, be sure to hold down the spring loaded felt wicks with tooth picks, not steel wire. Don't ask me why, that is what my dad directed me to do. Lubricate the bore of the bull gear before installing. And I like the idea of using the tailstock as a press to install the spindle. Ken

Thanks for the tips. So, one poster indicates it is best to loosen the clamps, 4GSR opines it is OK to NOT loosen them before spindle removal. I like the latter idea, NO chance of disturbing the shim packs that way. As I previously indicated, clearances are OK. Anyone ELSE have any thoughts on this? Although I'm not a total dumb ass (opinions vary), this will be my first time pulling ANY lathe spindle for wick replacement. I just don't want to screw anything up. The lathe is an early 1940's 9B, it's in VERY nice condition. I'm pretty sure the spindle has NEVER been out. I bought the lathe from the original owner in the early 1970's, and I'm just a bit embarrassed I have not done anything to the lathe other than keep her clean and well oiled. The headstock does take oil readily though, so I convinced myself all was OK and no worries. But it IS 60 years old now, almost as old as it's current owner, so it is time...

 

[QuickChange]

Thanks for the tips. So, one poster indicates it is best to loosen the clamps, 4GSR opines it is OK to NOT loosen them before spindle removal. I like the latter idea, NO chance of disturbing the shim packs that way. As I previously indicated, clearances are OK. Anyone ELSE have any thoughts on this? Although I'm not a total dumb ass (opinions vary), this will be my first time pulling ANY lathe spindle for wick replacement. I just don't want to screw anything up. The lathe is an early 1940's 9B, it's in VERY nice condition. I'm pretty sure the spindle has NEVER been out. I bought the lathe from the original owner in the early 1970's, and I'm just a bit embarrassed I have not done anything to the lathe other than keep her clean and well oiled. The headstock does take oil readily though, so I convinced myself all was OK and no worries. But it IS 60 years old now, almost as old as it's current owner, so it is time...

Edit: Ahhh, I guess I can't add/subtract (maybe I AM a total DA??)... the lathe is closer to 80 years old That's definitely older than I am, sorry about the fuzzy math