Backlash Adjustment
Backlash is the amount of free play felt while changing rotation directions with the handwheel. This can be adjusted on the compound rest and cross slide leadscrews. Before beginning any adjustment, make sure all associated components are cleaned and lubricated and locks are loose.
Reducing backlash to less than 0.002" is impractical and can lead to accelerated wear of the wedge, nut, and leadscrew. Avoid the temptation to overtighten the backlash set screw while adjusting.
Compound Rest |
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Tools Needed: | Qty |
Hex Wrench 3mm | 1 |
The compound rest backlash is adjusted by tight- ening the set screws shown in Figure 113. When these screws are adjusted against the leadscrew nut, they offset part of the nut to remove play between the nut and leadscrew.
Set
Screws
Figure 113. Compound rest backlash adjustment
set screws.
To adjust the backlash, rock the handwheel back and forth, and tighten the screws slowly until the backlash is approximately 0.002"–0.003", as indi- cated on the graduated dial.
If you end up adjusting the nut too tight, loosen the set screws, tap the compound rest a few times with a rubber or wooden mallet, and turn the handwheel slowly back and forth until it moves freely—then try again.
Cross Slide |
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Tools Needed: | Qty |
Hex Wrench 3mm. | ............................................. 1 |
Hex Wrench 5mm . | ............................................ 1 |
The cross slide backlash is adjusted by loosen- ing all four cap screws shown in Figure 114, then tightening the center set screw. This will push down on a wedge and force the leadscrew nut apart, taking up lash between the nut and leadscrew.
Cap Screws
Set Screw
