I guess I will start a thread on this one. It really doesn't deserve a build log. It's not really a conversion. I just stuck some motors on it. The only thing I had to modify was the gear cover for the Z axis motor.
The brackets just clamp onto the stock parts. I got the plans for these little brackets from JFettig. http://www.jfettigmachines.com/
He sells the kits, but he also lets you download the drawings and plans. Thanks a bunch.
Saved me some time. I had to modify the drawings just a little. I had draw the bracket for the Y axis or tailstock for drilling. I used basically the same style clamp though. I milled a recess so it slipped over the ts casting about .25". They are all nice and solid. I locktited some studs in the clamp parts and then just used lock nuts.
everything is left standard on the lathe. It is tuned up a little, but if I am going to use it much, it will need some mods. Firstly and perhaps most critical is the lead screw. My half nut is cast iron. It works fine but should wear fairly fast.
There are also no bearing or bushings at all in it. I did drill an oiler hole in the carrier under the spindle.
I will install a ball screw or at least an acme screw and dumpster nut here.
It has just a little back lash. I will tune it up a little more. I had it loose enough to easily move by hand. Under motor control, it can be a little tighter on the carriage.
I am figuring out just how to do the code on a lathe. It is different than a mill, but I am actually using the setup for a mill.
I am running some drilling cycles in Sheetcam and swap the letter in the code to Y. That drills my stock full length first.
I then use the turn wizards in Mach Turn. I add this code under the peck drilling and it is able to do just what I wanted.
I will eventually make a bigger lathe or perhaps convert a 9/20.
I know guys have done a lot with these little lathes, I want the versatility of a larger more accurate one if I am going to put a lot of money in it.
Someone may get a good buy on a yellow 7/12 eventually.
Enough for now I think.
Here are a few pics.
Thanks for the image help guys.