For Machines Mfg. Since 3/11 | S E R V I C E |
SERVICE
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 that all associated components have been cleaned and lubricated.
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 |
|
Tools Needed: | Qty |
Hex Wrench 3mm | 1 |
The compound rest backlash is adjusted by tightening the set screws shown in Figure
111. 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 111. 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
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
Cross Slide |
|
Tools Needed: | Qty |
Hex Wrench 3mm | .................................................. 1 |
Hex Wrench 5mm | ................................................. 1 |
The cross slide backlash is adjusted by loosening all four cap screws shown in Figure 112, 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
Figure 112. Cross slide backlash adjustment screws.
To adjust the backlash, remove the compound rest and loosen the four cap screws. Then, rock the cross slide handwheel back and forth, and tighten the set screw slowly until the backlash is at approximately
If you end up adjusting the nut too tight, loosen the set screw, tap the cross slide a few times with a rubber or wooden mallet, and turn the handwheel slowly back and forth, until the handle turns
Remember to