Step chuck modification

Hi all.

I've had a smart and brown model L headstock laying about for a long time, with half a plan to use the step chuck on my Boxford lathe.

I finally got round to modifying a mounting plate for it, which is a D-1 3 mount.

I had to cut off the end of the hardened steel spindle to use and machine a backplate to suit. I didn't fancy my chances at making a backplate with suitable spindle nose thread. Plus it will only see occasional light use so I didn't need to make something so involved.

It was a relatively straight forward job but cutting the spindle was the hardest part, I used a disc grinder with the spindle rotating slowly in a very well covered lathe.

I can now use my s&b collects and the step chuck On either of my Boxford lathes for thin piece work etc.

It is nice when all your work holding gear fits multiple machines.

I also try and use the same collets etc, on my dividing heads and rotary tables.

Phil

Did you have to make a draw bar or draw tube to go with the collets or is there something else closing the collets?

I have a step chuck and a cone chuck. They are rarely used because they usually don't fit what I have to hold. I think there were 3 sizes in a set of each and I only have one of each. I find soft jaws in a 3 jaw chuck more useful.

Martin C

I have bought several of both types of step collets for the museum's model A, including one from this firm, they had two, but they were both the same size.

**LINK**

I have a set of four step collects, each with different ranges. I will post the sizes tomorrow, they pretty much cover a fair range of sizes.

I had the draw bar tube for the original lathe but it was a shade too short. So I made a small extension piece and fitted a spare handwheel so that it fits.

I'm quite happy with it for thin piece work, I don't have any soft jaws so this will be just the job.