Ml7 New Owner.

Hi there.Im the proud owner of a low use ML7.I primarily rebuild old classic motorcycles.Therefore Im hoping it will be well used and time saving.

however, Its been 40 years since I last used a lathe, and nothings really coming back to me!

Firstly I cannot slow speed down.Despite pulling every lever & knob speed doesnt change?

Secondly the chuck/lathe appears too small to skim brake discs.If there any attachment that would allow this,or do I need a bigger lathe?

Thanks in advance for any help!

Hi Paul, welcome to the forum. I don't think your ML7 will be much use with brake discs, unless they are for trials bikes. Your swing may be only up to 7" diameter, and even if you had a lathe big enough, the motorcycle discs are pretty thin and flexible for turning, more a job for a cylindrical grinder.

I'd rather an ML7 owner explained but in outline:

1. The ML7 has a fixed speed motor

2. Three main Spindle speeds are varied by moving belts between pulleys; they're under the covers.

3. The number of speeds is doubled by engaging backgear, giving six speeds between 640 and 32rpm

lathes.co.uk have lots of words and pictures.

I agree with Old Mart about Brake disks. Disks up to 7" diameter may be possible and thin disks could be stuck on a face-plate, but not ideal.

Much depends on how many and how often. Better to use a more suitable machine if there are lots of them, squeezing loads of big work on to a small lathe is a bind, even if it's possible.

Dave

Re Brake Discs, I have swung 11 brake discs in the gap, by fixing to the Faceplate and clocking on the central register to centre. JUST!

The OD was being turned down to minimise unsprung weight on a sports/racing car!

Howard

As Howard points out, the faceplate gives you considerable increase in swing. Re. speed control. I cannot recommend too highly fitting a VFD/3hase motor combo. Transforms speed control (even pn my TriLeva)

rgds

Bill

There are other ways...

George

Many thanks for the responses guys.I think ill get a faceplate anyway.Ive bought a quick change tool post and chuck from RGD.Ill carry on learning!

Edited By paul coombs on 25/11/2019 17:46:21

Where are you in the country Paul? If you are down South West I would be happy to show you the basics on mine. It would have to be the basics, I'm only a novice myself!

Hi Im in Essex,so fair distance! Thanks for the offer though.looks like a lot of reading and Youtube videos to the rescue!