Early Cowells lathe spindle thread size

Whilst engaged in further research about suitable lathes for my workshop relocation, I discovered that whilst current Cowells lathes have an M14x1mm threaded spindle, earlier versions were M14x1.5mm (please correct me if I've got that wrong).

From an admittedly cursory look on't internet, it appears to me that backplates, chucks etc (of any make) for the earlier 1.5mm size are not readily available - at least in the 'new' category.

Is this is a fair reading of the situation or am I just not looking in the right place?

Brian

Look in Arceurotrade.co.uk advert on this page. Type "Cowells" in the left hand search box where their advert opens- should solve your backplate problem at least.

Dennis

Edited By Stovepipe on 20/04/2016 14:51:56

Edited By Stovepipe on 20/04/2016 14:52:56

Brian

Possibly worth pointing out that the Unimat 3/4 uses a 14 x 1 nose thread, so potentially compatible.

rgds

Bill

Even earlier were 1/2" which is even harder to find but std drill chuck will fit.

Sherline do chucks in all these sizes and are good quality for the money.

http://millhillsupplies.co.uk/sherline/sherline-chucks/

Edited By jaCK Hobson on 20/04/2016 17:06:49

.

Q.E.D.

For higher resolution ... Click on the image

MichaelG.

Yes the early machines were m14x1.5, chucks indexers and dividing heads for these older models fetch a premium price on ebay. Taps and dies m14x1.5 are available from tracey tools etc

Thanks for the replies chaps

If, and it is still a big if, I decide to go down the Cowells route, it looks as if it'll be best if I avoid those with the larger thread pitch. I wouldn't want to spend all my time looking for expensive / hard to find parts to go with a new toy.

Brian

Why don't you phone Colin, the owner of Cowells, and have a chat? He's a very ameniable chap and may be able to supply bits and bobs for the older machines. A phone call is quite inexpensive. 01206 251792

Regards, Steve

Edited By Steve Sharman on 20/04/2016 21:24:01

Another source of used Cowells Parts (as well as other stuff) is company called Triona Ltd. who have a website www.myford-lathes.com

If you speak to Howard on either 01225 812155 or 07753610420 he may be able to help you. I have had a few bits of him for my early Cowells lathe. Alternatively email: [email protected]

Colin

Brian,

As per a MEW from a couple of years ago, IIRC Tony Jeffree (I'm pretty sure it was he) restored a Cowells lathe (and serialised it). One of the first things he did was to buy a new spindle with the 14 x 1 thread, so that he could use cheap(er) alternative chucks, faceplates, etc. as made for the Unimat and similar.

Perhaps a call to Cowells to investigate the cost of a spindle would be worthwhile?

Regards Tom

I should emphasise that I'm only in the planning stage at the moment & am by no means settled on a Cowells.

When 'the management' first bought up the subject of re-locating my workshop (with a ageing Chinese mini-lathe), there were 3 options; a new fully insulated shed, taking over the garage or using the spare room once sprog #2 had left home. The size of replacement lathe would depend on that decision - or perhaps it'll be the other way round!

Thanks for all of the links and comments anyway.

Brian

Will have to look at my 1980ish 90E, see if it is classed as early or late ?