Faceplate Turning

Faceplate turning projects fall into two categories: those that extend below the level of the lathe/extension bed and those that do not. If your project will rotate below the level of the lathe/extension bed, you will need to rotate the headstock to the 60° or 90° positions (discussed further in Adjustments section). But if your pro- ject does not extend below the lathe/extension bed, it is safest to rotate the headstock 180° so the project will rotate over the extension bed. This allows the operator to stand directly in front of the project and allows use of the tool rest without the extension arm, thus, eliminating undue flexing of the tool rest.

Figure 19. Faceplate turning large projects.

Figure 20. Faceplate turning small projects.

1.Locate the center point of the workpiece by carefully drawing diagonal lines from corner to corner. The point of intersection is the cen- ter of the work. Find the center of round work- piece by using a center finder instrument.

G5979 Wood Lathe

2.Using 4 wood screws, attach the workpiece as close to the center of the faceplate as pos- sible. Make sure that the wood screws will not interfere with the lathe chisels or intend- ed cuts.

3.Adjust the headstock to the desired position for the turning operation that you will be per- forming.

4.Attach the faceplate/workpiece assembly to the headstock spindle using two wrenches.

Tool Rest

Adjust the tool rest as close to the workpiece as possible without actually coming into contact with the workpiece. Test by hand-turning the work- piece before turning the lathe on. Ensure that the lathe chisel is fully supported by the tool rest. Support the lathe chisel on the tool rest with one hand, while the other hand controls the chisel. See Figure 21.

Figure 21. Proper hand positioning.

Wear a face shield dur- ing the test run and operation of this wood working lathe. Failure to do so could result in serious injury.

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Grizzly G5979 instruction manual Faceplate Turning, Faceplate turning large projects
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G5979 specifications

The Grizzly G5979 is a versatile and robust woodworking lathe designed for both professional and amateur woodworkers. Known for its durability and precision, the G5979 model stands out in the woodworking community for its innovative features and user-friendly design.

One of the main characteristics of the Grizzly G5979 is its powerful 1 HP motor, providing ample torque for turning a wide variety of wood pieces. The variable speed range, adjustable from 600 to 3200 RPM, gives users the flexibility to select the optimal speed for their specific project, whether it’s shaping delicate spindles or roughing out larger bowls.

The lathe boasts a solid cast iron construction, which not only contributes to stability during operation but also helps minimize vibrations. This ensures a smooth finish on the woodwork and allows for greater accuracy in shaping the material. Additionally, the bed of the lathe is designed to accommodate longer workpieces, making it suitable for projects of varying sizes.

Another key feature of the Grizzly G5979 is its swiveling headstock, which can be rotated 180 degrees. This functionality enhances the versatility of the lathe, enabling users to easily access different angles for intricate designs and detailed work. Enhancing this feature is an easy-to-read scale for adjustments, making it effortless for woodworkers to make precise changes.

The lathe also includes a built-in tailstock with a precision live center, allowing for secure and accurate positioning of workpieces. An easy to operate handwheel enables fine adjustments, adding to the overall convenience of the device.

The G5979 is equipped with a sturdy tool rest that can be adjusted for height and angle, facilitating smoother transitions during turning. The tool rest is designed for easy installation and removal, enhancing the lathe's operation efficiency.

Safety features of the Grizzly G5979 include a safety switch and an emergency stop button, ensuring that users can quickly halt operation in case of any unforeseen issues. Moreover, the overall design reflects a commitment to user safety and ease of use, making it an appealing choice for woodworkers at any skill level.

In summary, the Grizzly G5979 woodworking lathe represents a great blend of power, precision, and safety. Its array of features and technologies ensures that users can tackle a wide range of woodworking projects effectively. Whether you are an experienced craftsman or a beginner, the G5979 is a solid investment for any woodworking shop.
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