Smallpiece Cromwell Mk2 lathe

I have the above lathe, it is almost complete though a number of bits still need to be made for it. Biggest problem is the apron traverse does not work, handle just spins no noise or resistance but I can move it when drive is engaged and leadscrew turned by hand. Anyone any ideas what the problem is.

Edited By Roger Quaintance on 24/02/2022 11:13:14

Sounds (hopefully) like a sheasred key or pin in the apron, but you will have to strip the apron to find out! Quality machine, but of course we need pictures!!

Phil

Cheers Phil well I will have to sort lights for pictures but will see what I can do, a number of pieces will need casting so time I got that sorted and patterns made It has sat awaiting refurb for some time, unheated workshop so rust also a problem. It has been a long time coming and so many other jobs to sort out including the main 75 tooth 16DP gear that I will have to make, considering using Aluminium as easier to cast a blank. Other gears also needed, plus several case covers and power feed assembly, back gear etc enough to keep me busy for a while so if anyone has one be handy to know tooth count for back gears.

Close Phil, I took time out to look at again today, and noticed the gear at the handle and shaft spins however the gear that transfers motion to another gear driving the leadscrew does not move, oops have to move it out from the wall to get at it, it has been like that since I bought it and was told then the lathe had not been used for 40 year, ha ha So am pretty confident that is the answer, Just have to mount the motor now and could have the basis of my gear hobber

It has only taken me 3 years to make a start on the machine, it kind of got buried as I have a Colchester for my main turning.