Aligning Tailstock to Spindle Centerline
this is an essential adjustment that should be ver- ified or performed each time the tailstock is used to turn concentric workpieces between centers or immediately after offsetting the tailstock when turning a taper. if the tailstock is not aligned with the spindle centerline when it is supposed to be, turning results will be inaccurate along the length of the workpiece.
Items Needed | Qty |
Hex Wrench 6mm | 1 |
Round Stock 2" x 6" | 2 |
Precision Level | 1 |
To align the tailstock to the spindle center- line:
1.Use the precision level to make sure the bed- way is level from side to side and from front to back.
2.Center drill both ends of one piece of round stock, then set it aside for use in Step 5.
3.Use the other piece of round stock to make a dead center, and turn it to a 60° point, as illustrated in the figure below.
Figure 51. Turning a dead center.
Note: As long as this dead center remains in the chuck, the point of the center will remain true to the spindle centerline. The point will have to be refinished whenever the center is removed and then returned to the chuck.
4.install a center in the tailstock.
5.attach a lathe dog to the test stock from Step 2, then mount it between the centers as shown in the figure below.
Figure 52. Example photo of stock mounted
between the centers.
6.turn 0.010" off the stock diameter.
7.Mount a test or dial indicator so that the plunger is on the tailstock quill.
Note: If necessary in the following step, refer to the Offsetting Tailstock subsection for detailed instructions.
Model G0746/G0749 (Mfg. Since 3/13) |