Jim S.
Hot Rolled
- Joined
- Sep 4, 2003
- Location
- South Carolina
I want to make a new carriage rack for an older tool room lathe that is no longer supplied by OEM and which is not a stocked size or tooth form. Rack is approx 1/2" x 1/2" x 24" with 24DP - 20 degree PA teeth. I need one for my lathe and know of several other owners also looking for a replacement.
I'm considering using 1/2" x 3" 4140 ground bar pre-hardened (25 RC). Would cut the teeth on my shaper then slit lengthwise and machine/grind to final width. This method of "gang cutting" the teeth saves immensely on the time to single point the teeth for 5 individual racks. But I don't know how much warping to expect as a result of machining the teeth and slitting off the bar. I think I can accommodate moderate bending, say 3/16" in 24" since the rack will be pinned and bolted firmly in place on the lathe? Straightening is also certainly a possibility as long as bending is not severe.
Anyone have experience along these lines?
I'm considering using 1/2" x 3" 4140 ground bar pre-hardened (25 RC). Would cut the teeth on my shaper then slit lengthwise and machine/grind to final width. This method of "gang cutting" the teeth saves immensely on the time to single point the teeth for 5 individual racks. But I don't know how much warping to expect as a result of machining the teeth and slitting off the bar. I think I can accommodate moderate bending, say 3/16" in 24" since the rack will be pinned and bolted firmly in place on the lathe? Straightening is also certainly a possibility as long as bending is not severe.
Anyone have experience along these lines?
