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+-- Forum: Machinery (http://www.metalworkingfun.com/forum-10.html)
+--- Forum: Lathes (http://www.metalworkingfun.com/forum-11.html)
+--- Thread: Let's See Your Lathe (/thread-15.html)
RE: Let's See Your Lathe - Welrod - 06-08-2012
Thank you stevec you explain what I do not know translate.
RE: Let's See Your Lathe - TAWPTool - 06-18-2012
Hi! New member here from the Sacramento, CA area.
Just last night I finished the cleanup of my new (to me) lathe. It is a Clausing/Colchester 11" gear head lathe (11x30). It is known as a Colchester Bantam 2000 in the UK. It was built in 1979. This happens to be the youngest machine in my little workshop.
When I received it, it had grease, oil and grime over much of it, but had little to no wear. I retained the stock 2hp 3ph motor, and installed a VFD to manage it. I now have variable speed and a MachTach installed. The panel that it's mounted on is temporary until I can build a suitable dedicated enclosure.
This lathe is probably the one that my Wife will have to bury me with! haha It's a dream to run and I really enjoy it.
I bought it with a Buck 3-jaw chuck, an Aloris QCTP and six tool holders, but little else. I am actively searching for a follow rest and steady rest for it. I would prefer original, but I may have to resort to other options. They are difficult to find!
Guy
RE: Let's See Your Lathe - Mayhem - 06-18-2012
Now that is a nice lathe. Well done on the clean up. Any 'before' pics? Looks to have a decent spindle bore too.
RE: Let's See Your Lathe - TAWPTool - 06-19-2012
Thank you! Actually, I'm still cleaning it up but it's not taking as much time as the VFD installation did. I'm afraid that I don't have any decent photos of it before cleanup.
The spindle bore is 1.375".
As soon as I finish and install the back splash, I'll be able to place it in it's designated spot along the wall. Then I can get back to work assembling my 1967 Bridgeport J head.
Thanks again,
Guy
(06-18-2012, 11:32 PM)Mayhem Wrote: Now that is a nice lathe. Well done on the clean up. Any 'before' pics? Looks to have a decent spindle bore too.
RE: Let's See Your Lathe - ScrapMetal - 06-19-2012
Question about the Mach Tach, what kind of sensor did you choose to use and how's it working for you?
I've got a Mach Tach built and sitting next to my desk but I haven't made a case for it yet.
Thanks,
-Ron
RE: Let's See Your Lathe - TAWPTool - 06-19-2012
Ron,
I used the standard IR sensor that comes with the kit. I fabricated a small aluminum bracket that I mounted to the lathe's end guard mounting stud. I then wrapped a small portion of the outer spindle with black gorilla tape, then cut thin strips of the reflective tape that comes in the kit. I used eight strips, but could have used fewer.
It works great!
Here's a pic:
[attachment=1945]
(06-19-2012, 02:36 AM)ScrapMetal Wrote: Question about the Mach Tach, what kind of sensor did you choose to use and how's it working for you?
I've got a Mach Tach built and sitting next to my desk but I haven't made a case for it yet.
Thanks,
-Ron
RE: Let's See Your Lathe - ScrapMetal - 06-19-2012
Thanks TAWP. That gives me a little more confidence in the IR sensor. Now I just have to figure out the best way to set it up on my old girl. (Spin the wife?
Glad she never reads my posts. 
) 
-Ron
RE: Let's See Your Lathe - TAWPTool - 06-19-2012
Ron,
Yes I think you can have complete confidence in the IR sensor. Others are available though if your installation requires it.
If I may make a suggestion... I would recommend that you fabricate the sensor mount, then wire up the MachTach to test. Once you see everything working I'm sure you'll become motivated to fab up a nice enclosure for it. When you do, please post some photos. You know how we all love to see photos!
Guy
(06-19-2012, 02:01 PM)ScrapMetal Wrote: Thanks TAWP. That gives me a little more confidence in the IR sensor. Now I just have to figure out the best way to set it up on my old girl. (Spin the wife?
-Ron
RE: Let's See Your Lathe - DaveH - 06-19-2012
Guy,
A very nice lathe you have there
DaveH
RE: Let's See Your Lathe - Bill Gruby - 06-20-2012
Yup, they are all nise but, I will still take my 9X20. I havent come up against anything it can't do yet. It has done everything expected of it so far.
"Billy G"