Quick change tool post and ball cutting

I have found this thread to be quite interesting as I have been toying with the idea of getting a quick change tool post. After seeing all the comments, particularly the first one from SOD, I think that I will go back to my original scheme of making extra tool posts. Just 2 way rather than 4 way and set each one up with the tools that I will be using. It does not take long to change a complete tool post,

I have already made one for my boring bars. They don't take long to make and they don't cost very much. I'll spend the money on something that is more difficult for me to make, like a collet chuck!

On my little lathe I put the shims under the 4 way tool post rather than the tool, the bigger square shims are easier to handle than little strips.

Neil

Just noticed that the comment I referred to should have been the one from "Not Done It Yet' not "SOD". Obviously my brain was not fully engaged at the time I wrote it.

Neil

Hi again all,

ok so have tried to put together my top slide (bearing in mind parts are out of action because of the broken screws) but the old tool post and the new tool post - to the bottom of the tool holder part - look about the same. Apologies for the scale drooping on the second photo - I didn’t notice when I took the photo - it seems to be about the same distance from the lathe bed.

Hi Howard, sorry been out most of the day, just replied to your dm’s.

all the best

Margaret

Margret, you do not need that flat square block at the bottom of the QCTP, should fit like this

See my comment in the stuck screw thread about heights that matter

Hi Jason, sorry, posted in wrong thread! The forum jumps around on my phone when trying to load pics! I will reply on there tonkeep things consistent.

OK, Jason, you shamed me into it. The clamp screws are 5/16" UNF.

I've acquired a QCTP as well in the meantime, so eventually I'll be in a better position to decide which I prefer.

Looks good bill, keep us posted!