Gadget ideas to move the TL-3 tailstock.
I am playing with ideas to make a system to move the tailstock of my TL-3 back and forth on the ways.
Currently to move it away from the chuck, I use the carriage to push it along.
To bring it towards the chuck, I lean into the end of the machine and push against the tailstock. I risk falling on my face every time I do this, so I want a better system.
Idea 1 is a simple tow hook that would drop down from the tailstock, engage the carriage, and allow the carriage to tow the tailstock as well as pushing it.
Idea 2 is an extension to the rack at the front of the ways, so that it reaches all the way to the rear of the lathe. Then I could have a handwheel or crank mounted to the tailstock and engaging the rack, like the system used on LeBlond manual lathes.
Before I go crazy with the designing, I'm wondering if anyone else has found other ways to address this problem.
Sincerely,
Frederic
5 Attachment(s)
TL-3 Tailstock Hover System
I finished building the hover system today. I am pleased to say that it works perfectly. Thanks go to URGuys for the idea.
It only takes 30 PSI to float the tailstock. Once floating, it can be moved with finger pressure.
A couple of permanent modifications to the tailstock are needed. The existing grease fittings are 1/4-28. I drilled and tapped those holes to 1/8 NPT so I could use the stainless fittings that we have in the shop. If I ever need to remove the hover system, I can install 1/8 NPT grease fittings.
Four 10-32 holes need to be drilled and tapped for the mounting brackets.
The regulator, valve and gauge are from MSC. The gauge isn't necessary, but I like gauges. Be warned, the regulator I chose is a cheap pot metal casting. It's very easy to tear the threads out, so don't overtighten it.
Regulator 42007740
Ball valve 04480125
Gauge 56468515
I've shot some video, and will upload it later today. For now, here's some pictures.
Tailstock wheel removed for clarity.
http://www.cnczone.com/forums/attach...1&d=1312557806
Closeup of the regulator and valve.
http://www.cnczone.com/forums/attach...1&d=1312558362
Rear view.
http://www.cnczone.com/forums/attach...1&d=1312557806
Plumbing on right hand side.
http://www.cnczone.com/forums/attach...1&d=1312557806
Right side again, with the lathe in the home position.
http://www.cnczone.com/forums/attach...1&d=1312557806