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RUNNING A REGAL

An instruction manual describing the construction,

operation and maintenance of the modern geared
head engine lathe ... the LeBlond Regal ...
with exploded parts section for greater ease and speed
in ordering repair parts.

15th Edition
R.K. LeBlond Co.

1951 Printed in U.S.A.

Price 50c

THE R. K. LeBLOND MACHINE TOOL CO., CINCINNATI 8, OHIO, U.S.A.

Largest Manufacturer of a Complete Line of Shop-Tested Lathes

INTRODUCTION

Running a Regal and producing accurate work is not a difficult task if

the fundamentals of good engine lathe operation are observed. It is
important that the operator understand his Regal thoroughly, to see that it
is well lubricated and maintained at a high standard of performance.
Running a Regal is intended to aid the operator in getting out of the
Regal all the accuracy and dependability that has been built into it so
carefully. In addition to specific instructions on how to operate, lubricate
and maintain the Regal, this manual also contains information on the
best methods of performing the most common lathe operations.
This edition contains for the first time an exploded parts section in
which every part is illustrated in proportion and relation to connecting or
adjacent parts. There is an exploded parts illustration for each of the
units which make up the Regal, and each part is listed by name and
number. This section was added to Running a Regal in order to make it
easy for you to order necessary parts, and to assure you that your order
will be processed quickly through our plant and the parts shipped to you
without delay.
A great deal of thought, time, effort and money have been put into
this new edition. However, nothing is ever perfect, and if at any time you
think any part of Running a Regal could be improved, your comments or
suggestions will be welcomed.

INDEX
Description ----------------------------------------------------------------------------7
Setting up, Leveling and Running a Regal ----------------------------------------8
Lubrication --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14
Maintenance ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 15
Accessories and attachments ------------------------------------------------------- 16
Measuring Instruments---------------------------------------------------------------------19
Lathe tools---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 22
Grinding lathe tools----------------------------------------------------------------- 24
Holding work in the lathe---------------------------------------------------------- 25
Lathe operations -------------------------------------------------------------------- 31
Tables -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 49
Repair parts section----------------------------------------------------------------- 55

PRELIMINARY INSTRUCTIONS
When you ordered your Regal, you received an acknowledgment of the order specifying a date of shipment.
When the lathe left our factory, the transporting agency
issued a bill of lading, a receipt indicating that the
machine was accepted in good order for shipping.
The lathe becomes your property upon payment of
the freight charges and surrender of your bill of lading.
Before accepting the shipment, check the lathe to be
sure that it has not been damaged in transit. If it has
been damaged in any way, the shipment should be conditionally accepted from the transportation company with
the provision that it be subject to thorough inspection.
When you have determined the extent of the damage
and have placed your claim with the transportation

company, we ask that you forward us complete details

and our traffic department will help you expedite.
In uncrating and preparing your Regal for operation,
follow the instructions contained in the section on "Setting up, Leveling and Running a Regal". Be sure to
loosen the carriage clamp screw - it has been clamped to
the bed to prevent movement during transit.
Also follow very carefully the leveling instructions
given. Even some of the best mechanics do not realize
how important this is. Although the bed is heavy, it can be
sprung easily, and all the care taken in manufacturing and
inspection is wasted if insufficient attention is paid to
leveling.
5

FIG.1--ENGINE LATHE NOMENCLATURE

DESCRIPTION
This handbook contains descriptive data and instructions for
operation and service of the Regal Lathe, manufactured by
The R. K. LeBlond Machine Tool Company, Cincinnati 8,
Ohio.
HEADSTOCK
The feed reverse and compounding feed gears are
incorporated within the eight-speed, selective geared
headstock. Gears are steel throughout; all gears and shafts
splash lubricated.
TAILSTOCK
The entire tailstock is movable on the ways along the length
of the bed to accommodate pieces of varying lengths between
centers within the capacity of the machine. The tailstock is
kept in alignment with the headstock by a V on the rear way of
the bed and can be clamped in position with the tailstock
clamping bolt.

QUICK CHANGE GEAR BOX

The mechanism within the quick change gear box transmits
motion from the main spindle in the headstock to the feed rod
and leadscrew. The feed gears may be shifted while the
machine is in motion. By use of the quick change levers, any
thread or feed on the feed plate may be quickly obtained.
Metric translating gears as well as special gears for odd
threads may be obtained.
MOTOR DRIVE
The motor is mounted on a hinged plate on the back of the
leg below the headstock. The motor mounting plate can be
adjusted by screws in the leg to regulate the tension on the Vbelts which drive the lathe. Belts are enclosed in a belt guard.
The drum reversing switch--on machines without apron
spindle control--is mounted on the headstock cover. All wiring
is protected by metal conduit. This switch starts, stops and
reverses the spindle.

FEED ROD
The feed rod transmits the power from the quick change gear
box to the apron. The feed rod is connected to the final drive
through a safety device. Should the carriage meet with any
obstruction on the bed or run into the chuck or face plate, the
safety device will release and prevent damage to the feed
mechanism of the lathe. As soon as the feed is disengaged at
the apron, or obstruction is removed, the safety device engages
again and resumes turning the feed rod.
LEADSCREW
The leadscrew is used for thread cutting, and it is driven by
the leadscrew gear and feed rod gear located at the quick
change gear box ahead of the safety clutch.

With the apron spindle control the drum switch is mounted

on the rear of the bed under the head and is operated by either
of the two spindle control levers: the one at the right of the
apron, or the one at the quick change box.
CARRIAGE AND COMPOUND REST
The carriage travels along the lathe bed and is guided by an
inverted V-way in front and a flat way in back. The movement
of the carriage is by means of the gears in the apron to which
it is attached. These gears transmit their power to a rack
secured to the bed.
The compound rest supports the tool post in its various
positions, and can be swiveled to any angle in the horizontal
plane.

BED
TOOL POST
The bed is the foundation of the lathe. On it are mounted
such assemblies as the headstock, tailstock and carriage.
APRON
The apron is a double-walled, one-piece casting in which all
shafts and gears are supported at both ends. The lathe apron
contains the controls, gears and other mechanism for moving
the carriage along the bed.

The tool post, attached to the compound rest, supports the

cutting tool and provides a means of raising or lowering the
cutting edge.
To get the most out of your Regal you should be thoroughly
acquainted with what it will do. To assist you in this respect,
complete specifications for all six size Regals are contained in
the Tables section at the back of this manual. Refer to these
specifications frequently so you will know exactly what to
expect when running a Regal.

SETTING UP, LEVELING AND RUNNING A REGAL

PREPARATION FOR USE

LEVELING THE LATHE

Remove the crating carefully and leave the skids under the
lathe until you have skidded the machine to its approximate
location.

Refer to figure 2. It is very important to level the lathe

properly. Although the bed is heavy, it can easily be sprung
if not properly leveled. A steel plate approximately 3/8 to
1/2" thick x 4" sq. may be placed under each leveling screw.

The floor on which the lathe sets should be absolutely

firm. A lathe must set level and solid in order to perform
accurately. It will be impossible to keep the machine level
and in alignment if the floor is springy. Therefore, a solid
foundation for the lathe is of the utmost importance.

For best results in leveling, are a precision ground bulb

level made by Pratt & Whitney, Starret, or Queen & Co. An
ordinary carpenter's level, or a combine it square level is not
sensitive enough. Proceed as follows:

Next, remove the lag screws which hold the legs to the
skids and remove the skids from under the machine.

1. Run the level screws down in the legs until they touch the
floor.

Remove all slush oil from the various parts of the machine.
This can be done with a rag or waste saturated with
kerosene. Next, wipe off all the bright or bearing parts with a
dry rag or waste, following with a rag saturated with clean
machine oil to cover all these parts with a protecting film of
oil.

2. Place two parallel strips (1, Figure 2) on the front and

rear flat ways (2) as near the headstock as possible. Do not
place level across vee ways.
3. Place level (3) across the two strips as indicated.
4. Raise the low side of the lathe by adjusting the leveling
screws in the legs until the bubble is in the center of the
glass bulb.
5. Move the two parallel strips to the tailstock end as shown
in figure 2, and place the level across the parallel strips.
6. Proceed to level the tailstock end of the lathe in the same
manner as the headstock end as set forth above.
7. Repeat the process of first leveling the headstock end,
then the tailstock end until the lathe bed is brought into exact
level.
8. After leveling the lathe, tighten the lock nut on each
leveling screw, making sure each screw is touching the floor.
9. The lathe, when leveled, should show the same degree of
accuracy of alignment as noted on the test card which
accompanies each lathe..
10. On three legged beds level over the center leg and level
length wise on the rear way in addition to above procedure.
If the lathe sets on a wood floor, the same lag screws taken
from the skids can be used for lagging the machine to the
floor. These, however, should not be pulled down so tight
that they draw the bed out of level, but only tight enough to
keep the lathe from "walking."
If set on a concrete floor, expansion bolts should be used
for this purpose. Do not bed the legs in concrete because it
may be necessary from time to tire to check and correct the
machine for level.

FIG. 2LEVELING THE REGAL

Connect the service lines to the motor. It is important that

the voltage and the other specifications of the motor be the
same as those of your service lines. The data plate on the
motor specifies whether the current should be direct (DC) or
alternating (AC). If direct currrent is specified, the voltage

is shown. If alternating current is specified, the voltage,

frequency (cycles) and number of phases are shown.
BEFORE STARTING LATHE
Before you start the lathe, refer to the lubrication schedule
(see page 14) which shows the location of various oil inlets
on the machine. Fill the headstock with an industrial oil of
500 sec. at 100 F. This type oil is comparable to SAE-30.
Fill to the oil level line indicated on the filler plug and squirt
oil in all oil holes. It is important to use only the best grade
of lubricating oil. All of the bearings fit closely and it is
absolutely essential that the machine is properly lubricated
before it is operated.
NOTE
A lathe, like any other piece of mechanical
equipment, depends on the attention it receives
during the first three or four days use -- "the
breaking-in period." See that all bearings are
carefully oiled and watch that none run hot.

Before trying to do any work on your Regal, familiarize

yourself with the names of the various working parts (see
figure 1 ) as the parts are referred to throughout the manual
by these names. Also, become familar with the functions of
the various assemblies.

FIG. 4 17-24 REGAL QUICK CHANGE BOX

HEADSTOCK

FIG. 5 REGAL HEADSTOCK

FIG. 3 13-15 REGAL HEADSTOCK AND QUICK CHANGE

BOX CONTROLS

All Regal headstocks have eight selective, geared speeds.

Reverse to leadscrew, feed rod and compounding feed gears
are contained within the headstock and are operated by
convenient levers; the upper (3, figure 3 ) reverses the
direction of feed, the lower (5, figure 3) controls the two
feed gear ratios. Steel gears throughout the headstock. All
shafts are supported on anti-friction bearings. Taper key
drive spindle nose furnished as standard.

QUICK CHANGE GEAR BOX

OPERATION OF APRON

By means of the tumbler gear handle (9, figures 3-4),

the tumbler gear can be rocked into engagement with
any of the change gears in the cone formation. This is
done by pulling out the handle plunger and depressing
the handle to disengage the tumbler gear, then sliding
the tumbler along the sleeve to the proper location and
lifting the handle up to bring the gears into
engagement. When the gears are in engagement, the
plunger in the handle locks the tumbler in place so
that it cannot kick out when cutting left-hand threads.
A series of slots milled in the quick change box sleeve
and a pin engaging these slots prevent the tumbler
from engaging two change gears at one time.

The 13" and 15" Regal apron is a double-walled, onepiece casting in which all shafts and gears are
supported on both ends. The splined feed rod passes
through the feed bevel pinion. A key in the bevel pinion
engages the spline (keyway) on the feed rod. The bevel
gear is always in engagement with the bevel pinion,
which slides on the feed rod. The feed trip (1) controls
both the cross and longitudinal movements, but it is
interlocked to prevent accidental shifting from cross to
length feed or vice-versa. When the shifter handle (1) is
moved to the right to clear the safety lug (2) and
pressed down, it slides into engagement, the sliding
gear with a gear that is always in mesh with the cross
feed screw. Thus, the cross slide will move toward or
away from the operator, depending upon the position of
the feed reverse lever on the headstock. When the feed
reverse lever on the head is in the left-hand position,
that is, in the position farthest from the operator, the
cross slide moves to the front, toward the operator.

On the 13" and 15" lathes the eight feed changes obtained through the tumbler gear and quick change gear
are multiplied three times by means of the three positions of the lower lever (see 7, figures 3-4), which operates a sliding gear and gives different gear ratios to the
feed shaft. In the feed train two ratios are obtained by
compounding feed gears in the head. They are controlled by the small handle near the center of the head
(refer to 5, figure 3). The 13"-15" Regals provide 48
changes of feeds and threads. The 17"-19" Regals offer
56 feed and thread changes; the 21"-24", 63 changes.

The direct reading index plate is mounted on the

quick change box directly over the tumbler sleeve. The
numbers on the plate refer to the threads or feeds that
the leadscrew and the gear combinations will cut when
the tumbler is engaged directly under the number on
the index plate. "Coarse" and "Fine" refer to the
location of the compound feed handle on the head, and
the location of the lever refers to position of the coarse
change lever (7, figures 3-4).

FIG. 7 13-15 REGAL APRON

10

When the shifter is moved to the left, past the safety

lug, and pulled up, with the feed reverse lever to the
left, the carriage moves toward the tailstock. The
direction is toward the head if the feed reverse lever is
moved to the right.

When the feed trip (1) is in the neutral position, the

interference safety rod is out of the slot in the half-nut
and allows the half-nuts to be closed on the leadscrew
by lever (3) to chase threads. When the feed trip is
moved up or down, the safety rod moves to the right
and locks the upper half-nut so it cannot be moved.
When the half-nut is closed, the safety rod is in the slot
of the shifter shaft and prevents the movement of the
feed trip. Manual movement of the carriage is by
means of

FIG. 8 17-24 REGAL APRON

the hand wheel on-the left side of the apron engaging

the pinion with the rack on the bed. By means of
plunger (4), the one-shot lubricating system forces oil
to all bearings in the apron, the bottom slide and
carriage ways and the cross feed bush.
The construction of the 17"-24" Regal apron (figure 8)
is similar to that of the 13"-15" but differs slightly in its
operation. Lever (1) is moved down to engage the cross
feed, and swings up past the stop (2) to engage the
length feed. Lever (3) is the half-nut handle which can
only be engaged when lever (1) is in neutral against the
stop. Lever (5) is the apron feed reverse which reverses
the direction of feed without shifting the headstock
feed reverse. Of course, the direction of the leadscrew
rotation must still be set at the headstock.
THE CARRIAGE

THE FEED ROD

The feed rod transmits the power from the quick
change box to the apron. Most lathes of this type are
not provided with separate feed rod, but use a splined
leadscrew for both turning and chasing, thus the
leadscrew is always in use. On Regal Lathes, a
separate feed rod is provided to transmit the power for
turning and facing.
FEED ROD SAFETY DEVICE
All Regal Lathes, because of their extensive use in
schools where they are operated by comparatively inexperienced persons, are equipped with a safety device,
which releases when the load on the feed rod becomes
too great for the machine. At a predetermined factor of
safety, the spring-ball clutch releases the feed rod and
automatically engages it again when the strain is
released. Thus, if the carriage runs into the headstock,
the balls will compress the spring and release the shaft
and save the feed mechanism from breakage, but as
soon as the feed is disengaged at the apron, the safety
device engages again and resumes turning the feed
rod.
THE LEADSCREW
The leadscrew is used only for thread-cutting. The
leadscrew slip gear (10, figure 3) has a sliding fit on the
feed box end of the screw and can be engaged with, or
disengaged from, the feed rod gear by a short sliding
movement on the leadscrew. When not chasing
threads., disengage the sliding gear so that the
leadscrew does not revolve. On other lathes of this
type, where splined leadscrews are used to drive the
feed gears, the leadscrew is subjected to torsional
strains at all times and soon becomes inaccurate. The
key engaging the spline (keyway) in the leadscrew also
burrs up the edges of the threads and the leadscrew
acts as a tap, constantly wearing the half-nuts. The
leadscrew on a Regal Lathe remains accurate for the
life of the machine as it is not subject to these
conditions.

FIG. 9 CARRIAGE ASSEMBLY

The carriage (1) travels along the bed and is guided

by an inverted V-way or shear in front and a flat way in
back. The movement of the carriage is by means of the
gear train in the apron to which it is attached. The
bearings (bed ways) are protected by shear wipers to
prevent chips and dirt getting between the carriage and
the bed. The carriage is gibbed to the bed both in front
and back. The cross feed bush (2) forms the bearing for
the cross feed screw, on the front end of which is a
micrometer dial 3 and cross feed handle (4). The
carriage clamp screw (5) is used to clamp the carriage
to the bed for facing and cutting off operations.
NOTE: Before engaging the longitudinal feed, be
certain that the clamp screw is loose and that the
carriage can be moved by hand. The carriage is
clamped to the bed when the lathe leaves the factory to
prevent movement during transit.
Lift the compound rest dirt guard over the cross feed
screw and oil the screw (6). Oil the felt in the wipers.
When working with cast iron, remove the wipers
occasionally and clean them in kerosene.

The headstock end of the leadscrew runs in the

leadscrew bush which is held in a bearing in the quick
change .box by two screws. The leadscrew is held
endwise between a shoulder and the adjusting nut with
hardened thrust washers on each side of the bush.
End play is eliminated with the adjusting nut. Care
must be taken to keep the leadscrew free from end play
or the threads will be spoiled when the lathe is
reversed without backing the tool away from the work.
All right-hand threads, and the majority of turning
cuts on a lathe, are cut toward the headstock. For this
reason the Regal Lathes are equipped with left-hand
threaded leadscrews. This also reduces the number of
gears in mesh between the spindle and the leadscrew.
The thrust of the leadscrew is taken at the feed box
end of the screw, thus the leadscrew is in tension
under this condition. The leadscrew takes a bearing in
back box, but it takes no thrust at this point. The back
box supports both the leadscrew and the feed rod on
the tailstock end of the lathe.

11

When cutting threads, it is good practice to put a few

drops of oil on the leadscrew even though this is oiled
from the apron "one shot" system. Also, put a few
drops of oil on your hand and run your hand over the
feed rod. STOP LATHE before oiling feed rod! This will
not only lubricate the parts but keep them from
rusting. Oil both bearing in the back box daily.

cuts as top slide may break in the middle of the T-slot.

When taking heavy cuts, always have top slide flush
with bottom slide so the metal is all in compression.

THE COMPOUND REST

THIS IS WRONG. SLIDE OVERHANGS TOO FAR FORWARD.

PUTS UNNECESSARY STRAIN ON MIDDLE OF T-SLOT.

THIS IS WRONG TOO. SLIDE OVERHANGS TO RIGHT.

REQUIRES EXCESSIVE TOOL OVERHANG
FIG. 10 COMPOUND REST

The compound rest unit consists of compound rest

bottom slide (1), compound rest swivel slide (2), compound rest top slide (3), cross feed dirt guard (4), and
cross feed nut (not illustrated). The bottom slide is
fitted to the dovetailed cross slide of the carriage and is
equipped with a taper gib to provide means of
adjustment for wear. The gib adjusting screws in the
ends of the bottom slide can be tightened or loosened
to obtain the proper adjustment. The bottom slide
should be adjusted so that it will move freely on the
dovetail and still be a snug fit. The cross feed nut is
attached to the bottom slide and runs on the cross feed
screw (6, figure 9). The compound rest gets Its
movement on the carriage through the cross feed screw
and nut.
The compound rest swivel slide (see 2, figure 10) is
fitted on top of the bottom slide and swings around to
the angle selected. It is clamped in position by two Tslot bolts whose heads are in a circular T-slot in the
bottom slide. The swivel slide is graduated in degrees
so that the compound rest can be set accurately at the
desired angle. This feature is used when turning angles
on bevel gears, boring holes having short steep tapers,
turning and grinding centers, etc., where the angle is
too steep to use the taper attachment.

THIS IS BEST. TOP SLIDE SHOULD BE FLUSH WITH

BOTTOM SLIDE TO GIVE GREATEST SUPPORT TO CUTING TOOL
FIG. 11 CORRECT SETTING OF TOP SLIDE IS SHOWN IN
LOWER PHOTO.

THE TOOL POST

On the swivel slide a dovetail is planed, to which is

fitted the compound rest top slide (see 3, figure 10).
The top slide is also fitted with a taper gib for adjustment. A screw with a micrometer dial, which engages
the nut mounted in the swivel slide, provides hand feed
to the compound rest top slide.
Caution: Note position of compound rest slide in the
two extremes. In the forward position the slide
overhangs the rest to which it is clamped. In this position it is not advisable in any lathe to take roughing

12

FIG. 12 TOOL POST ASSEMBLY

The tool post unit comprises the tool post (1), tool
post screw (2), tool post washer (3), tool post collar (4),
and tool post wedge (5). The washer (3) fits the T-slot in
the compound rest top slide. The collar and wedge
elevate and lower the point of the tool, and the screw is
used for clamping. When placing a tool in the tool post,
be sure there are no chips or turnings between the
collar and the compound rest, or between the wedge
and the collar, to prevent the tool securing a firm
foundation. Also see that the tool does not extend out
of the tool post more than is necessary. The compound
rest slide should not extend over the bottom slide when
taking heavy cuts, and the tool post should be located
as near the center of the top slide as possible. Failure
to observe the above precautions will often cause
chatter. Do not tighten the tool post screw with a long
wrench, but use the wrench provided for that purpose.
Clean and lubricate the compound rest slides
occasionally. Also put a few drops of oil on the
compound rest screw.

THE TAILSTOCK

FIG. 14 13-15 REGAL TAILSTOCK ASSEMBLY

THE LATHE BED

The tailstock unit comprises the tailstock top (1),
tailstock bottom (2), tailstock clamp (3), tailstock
spindle (4), and tailstock screw (5). The entire unit is
movable on the ways along the length of the bed to
accommodate pieces of varying lengths between
centers within the capacity of the machine. The
tailstock is kept in alignment with the headstock by a
V on the rear shear (way) of the bed and can be
clamped in position with the tailstock clamping bolt
(6). Before moving the tailstock along the bed, wipe the
ways carefully to clean off any chips. Turnings on the
ways will throw the tailstock out of alignment.

FIG. 13 REGAL BED

The bed is the foundation of the lathe. On it the

different parts described in the foregoing paragraphs
are mounted. The bed has been machined and
accurately scraped at the factory, and the length of
time that it stays in this condition depends entirely on
the operator. Do not use the bed as an anvil for driving
arbors in and out, or as a bench for hammers,
wrenches and chucks. If you have no place to lay your
tools, arrange a neat board at the tailstock end of your
lathe, on which you can place them without damaging
the bed. Do not lay chuck wrenches across the bed or
wings of the carriage or leave tool post wrenches lying
on the bed. Many lathes have been wrecked by allowing
the carriage to feed against a chuck wrench or a tool
post wrench lying on the ways of the bed, between the
carriage and the headstock. Also see that the tops of
the girths in the bed are free from heavy turnings or
chips, as there is only a small clearance between the
carriage bridge and the bed girths. Keep the shears
clean. Wipe them off occasionally with a rag or waste,
following up with a little oil on a piece of cloth. See that
the bed rack is kept tight on the bed. Remember, the
condition of the bed usually tells what kind of a
mechanic has been running the lathe.

The tailstock top (1) sets on the bottom (2) and is

held in alignment by a cross tongue. For turning tapers
in the absence of a taper attachment, a setover is provided for the tailstock top. A setover adjusting screw (7)
on each side of the tailstock top provides means for
setting, and a raised boss on the rear is graduated to
show the amount of setover. The tailstock spindle (4) is
moved in and out of the tailstock barrel by means of
the screw (5), which fits a tapped hole in the spindle.
The front end of the spindle is bored and reamed to a
Morse taper to hold the tailstock center (8), drills, drill
chucks and reamers. To remove the tailstock center,
run the spindle back as far as it will go until the center
hits the end of the screw, which will force it out of the
tapered hole in the spindle. Before replacing the center,
carefully wipe out the hole; clean the tapered part of
the center; move the spindle forward by a few turns of
the hand wheel (9), and push center in. When using
drills, drill chucks and reamers, be sure they are tight
in the taper hole. If they are not tight they will revolve
and cut the tapered hole, destroying its accuracy.
Should the hole become scored, carefully ream out the
burrs or score marks with a Morse taper reamer.
The design of the tailstock allows the spindle to be
clamped in any position by means of a binder screw
handle (10). The spindle (4) should be removed occasionally, in order to oil the spindle nut and the outside of the spindle barrel.

13

LUBRICATION
Certain common service practices should be adhered to on
a periodic basis. Be sure to check spots as instructed below
and as shown in the accompanying photos:
Daily

100-180 Days

Maintain the oil level in headstock and apron. Clean

bed ways by wiping with a cloth saturated with oil. Oil
all points indicated in photos.

Check motor drive belt tension. Check level of the

lathe.

30-60 Days

Check headstock spindle bearing adjustment. Check

alignment of carriage gibs, bottom slide and top slide.

350-400 Days

Thoroughly clean the bed ways, feed

leadscrew by wiping with an oiled rag.

rod

and

Maintain a constant oil level in both the headstock and

apron assemblies. All other points indicated in photos are to
be lubricated daily with an industrial grade oil, equal to SAE
30, 500 sec. 100F. Apply lubricant with a pressure oil can.
HEADSTOCK OIL CAPACITIES (in quarts)

14

13"

15"

17"

19"

21"

24"

10

16

16

GENERAL

LEADSCREW ADJUSTMENT - 13-19" REGALS

The operator can easily adjust headstock spindle

bearing, drive belt tension, cross slide and top slide
and front and rear carriage gibs, and take up any end
play in the leadscrew.

1. Remove fillister head screw securing slip gear cover

to lathe bed, remove the cover.

HEADSTOCK SPINDLE BEARING ADJUSTMENT

3. Take out two fillister head screws securing

leadscrew bushing to side of quick change box. Engage
the half-nuts on the leadscrew.

1. Remove hex head nut and lock washer securing

handwheel or spacer to drive shaft. Remove handwheel
or spacer from drive shaft.
2. Take off two hex nuts and two Allen screws and
remove front half of belt cover.

2. Remove the back box.

4. Move the carriage toward the tailstock end sufficiently to allow the withdrawal of the bushing.

3. Remove three drive belts.

5. Draw up the adjusting nut on the end of the

leadscrew that extends through the bushing until there
is no end play in the leadscrew.

4. Remove drive pulley from headstock spindle.

6. Replace all parts.

5. Remove two hex head screws and washers to take off

rear half of belt cover.

LEADSCREW ADJUSTMENT - 21-24" REGALS

1. Tighten hex nut at end

of leadscrew (A)
2. Tighten adjusting nut (B)
to remove all end play.

ADJUSTING CROSS SLIDE AND TOP SLIDE GIBS

FIG. 15 ADJUSTING HEADSTOCK SPINDLE

6. Remove three fillister head screws and take off rear

spindle bearing flange.
7. Open ear of lock washer and, with spanner wrench
applied to lock nut as indicated above, tighten lock nut
until slight drag is felt on the spindle when it is turned
over by hand, with all gears in a neutral position, i.e.,
disengaged.
8. After adjustment has been made, secure lock nut by
bending over an ear on the lock washer, and replace all
parts.
BELT TENSION ADJUSTMENT
The motor is mounted on a hinged plate on back of
the headstock leg. The hinged plate is adjusted by
means of screws in the leg to regulate the tension on
the three V-belts which drive the lathe. The belts
should have just enough tension to take the cuts
without slipping.
NOTE
Do not put belts under too much tension, for in
so doing, a strain is thrown on the motor and
drive shaft bearings, causing excessive wear.
Keep oil off belts.

1. Loosen the gib screw at the small end of the gib,

which is the end farthest from the operator.
2. Tighten screw at large end of the gib.
3. Repeat till a slight drag is felt when moving the slide.
Be sure gib screws contact gib at both ends.
ADJUSTING CARRIAGE FRONT GIB
1. Remove front carriage gib by taking out hex head
cap screw.
2. Scrape metal from the gib surface that contacts the
underside of the carriage.
3. Replace front gib and secure with hex head cap
screw.
4. Repeat til the gib takes a bearing on the bed.
ADJUSTING CARRIAGE REAR GIB
The carriage rear gib is adjusted by moving it vertically upward. To adjust gib, loosen two hex head
screws holding gib against the rear wall of the carriage
and then tighten the two screws that move the gib
vertically upwards til a slight drag is felt when the
carriage is moved up the bed. Tighten hex screws.

15

ACCESSORIES A N D ATTACHMENTS

FOUR-JAW INDEPENDENT CHUCK

The four- jaw independent chuck (93), a s the name
indicates, has four jaws, each being independently adjusted with a chuck wrench. The jaws a r e reversible
so that the chuck can be used for inside o r outside chucking. It i s attached to the spindle of the lathe by means
of a chuck plate. The flange of the chuck plate i s fitted
t o the r e c e s s in the back of the chuck and the chuck
i s bolted to the flange. This adapter plate i s especially
recommended f o r old style Regals which w e r e built
with the threaded spindle nose. F o r the newer Regals
with taper key drive spindle nose, chucks a r e available
for direct mounting on the spindle nose as shown above.
The four-jaw chuck i s used to hold rough pieces that
a r e not perfectly round, o r pieces that must be centered
on the chuck so that some section will be concentric
with the lathe center line. This i s accomplished by adjusting each jaw individually with an indicator against
the work to determine the amount and direction of runout.

DRILL CHUCK AND SHANK

F o r holding center d r i l l s and straight shank d r i l l s ,
a d r i l l chuck with a shank fitting the Morse taper hole
in the tailstock spindle i s almost a necessity. These
chucks a r e made in the three- jaw self-centering type
(125), and the two-jaw type (126) which i s more desirable
for large size drills, taps and reamers.

THREE -JAW UNIVERSAL CHUCK

The small face plate i s used to drive pieces of work

such a s shafts and m a n d r e l s by means of a lathe dog
clamped to the work. The tail of the dog engages a slot
cast in the face plate. Three cored slots radial to the
center make it convenient to mount special d r i v e r s o r
fixtures to the face of the plate.
The three-jaw universal chuck i s used t o hold pieces
that a r e semi-machined, and p a r t s made of cold-rolled
steel o r drill rod which i s ground to close limits. When
the chuck wrench is used, all jaws move to o r from the
center in unison, gripping the pieces quickly. The chuck
i s attached to the spindle in the s a m e manner a s the
independent chuck described above. Either two s e t s of
jaws o r jaws with reversable tops are supplied with this
type of chuck.

The large face plate p e r f o r m s the same function a s

the small, except that it provides more room to mount
fixtures such a s angle plates and vee blocks. The large
face plate can also be drilled for the planer type holddown stops to hold large, irregular pieces that cannot
be accommodated in chucks of the conventional type.
See p a g e s 25- 30 f o r d e t a i l s . (Methods of Holding
Work in t h e L a t h e .

LATHE DOGS

The steady rest provides a fixed support between

head and tailstock for long, round work while it is
being turned. The support this rests gives a shaft of
small diameter, for example, permits use of a coarser
feed, and prevents chatter and any tendency for the
work to spring away from the tool. Many jobs are
impractical without the use of the steady rest.
CHASING DIAL

Lathe dogs (96) are used with the small face plate to
grip and to drive pieces between centers. Dogs of
different sizes can be obtained for use with corresponding diameter of work. The usual form of lathe dog
has a bent tail which engages a slot in the face plate.
Another form is known as the clamp dog (97) and is
used to drive square, hexagon or octagon shaped
pieces between centers.
FOLLOW REST

The chasing dial, or thread indicator, comprises a

worm wheel which meshes with the leadscrew and a
shaft connecting the worm with the numbered
indicator dial. When chasing an even number of
threads, the halfnut may be engaged .at any line on the
dial; for odd threads, at any numbered line; and at any
odd numbered line for half-threads.

The follow rest is used to support between-centers

work against the forces of the cut being taken. It is
bolted to the carriage and consequently moves with it.
To set the follow rest, the cut is started and turned
slightly longer than the width of the follow rest jaws.
The jaws are then set to the turned diameter after
which the cut can be taken across the entire length of
the piece of work.

Using the chasing dial in this manner, the operator

can take a cut, back the tool out of cut and return the
carriage to the starting position, set the tool for the
next depth of cut, and re-engage the half-nut without
stopping or reversing the lathe spindle.
TELESCOPIC TAPER ATTACHMENT

STEADY REST

FIG. 25 TELESCOPIC TAPER ATTACHMENT

]
FIG. 23 STANDARD AND OVERSIZE STEADY RESTS

The telescopic taper attachment is ruggedly constructed and simple to operate. When the carriage is
brought into position for the taper operation, the bed
bracket (1) is tightened on the flat bed way. The swivel
guide bar (2) is adjusted to the selected taper, which is
marked in inches on one end of the lower bar and in
degrees on the other end of the bar. Adjustment for
selected taper is made by loosening nuts (3) and
moving bar (2) to the desired taper. The swivel guide
bar is held secure by the screws (3). With the taper bar

17

clamp nut (4) loosened and assuming that the shoe

bracket gib and the carriage bracket gib are properly
adjusted, the tool is brought into position and the nut
(4) is tightened. We are now ready to chase taper
threads or to finish taper turn, or finish taper bore.
When carriage feed is engaged, bed bracket and its
connecting rod hold lower taper bar and adjustable
swivel bar in a fixed position with relation to bed and
work. Movement of carriage slides gibbed shoe (5)
along taper bar.
With lights cuts, nut (4) need not be tightened, then
the pull is on the cross feed screw and nut and the end
of the screw telescopes in the cross feed telescopic
bush, allowing the slide to move in or out.
With the nut (4) tightened, none of the pull is on the
cross feed screw, but on the flat draw bar (6) shown
over the cross feed screw, which is connected to the
bottom slide. This relieves the cross feed screw of all
strain and pull and wear, and insures longer life and
retains the original accuracy of the screw. Adjustment
of the cut is made by loosening clamping nut (4) and
setting tool to proper diameter and, of course,
tightening nut again after adjustment is made. Most
adjustments of the tool are made by the compound
rest. There is no necessity of adjusting clamping nut
after taper is set, other than to adjust for depth of cut
when using the cross feed screw. And this may be
eliminated by using the compound rest screw.
GRINDING ATTACHMENT

For internal grinding, small wheels are used on

special quills or extensions screwed on the regular
spindle. For wheels less than 2" diameter the pulleys
should be reversed to give the spindle greater speed.
Cover the bed ways with clean cloth or paper to protect
them from abrasive dust. Dispose of paper for safety.
SAFE GRINDING SPEEDS
Size of wheel

2"

3"

4"

5"

6"

Spindle rpm

9550

6380

4775

3825

3190

MICROMETER CARRIAGE STOP

The micrometer carriage stop is useful when the

operator is obliged to bring the carriage to the same
definite position a number of times, or where a series
of cuts are desired at accurate decimal dimensions
from one another, such as in cutting threads.
The stop is clamped to the front vee of the lathe
bed. The design of the clamping surfaces is such that
there is no danger of scoring the vee of the bed while
using this attachment. A micrometer screw with
hardened ends is turned by a large diameter collar. The
collar is knurled to provide a finger grip for turning,
and is graduated to show the travel of the screw in
thousandths of an inch. The carriage is brought up
against the end of the stop by hand in actual use.
Never run carriage against stop with power feed.
DRAW-IN ATTACHMENT

For turning small parts from round finished stock

there is no more accurate, rapid and economical
method than the use of a draw-in collet chuck, either
the tube type as illustrated, or the spindle nose type
such as the Sjogren chuck.

Many grinding jobs can be done advantageously in

a lathe with this attachment: hard centers can be repointed, cutters and reamers sharpened, and all kinds
of straight and taper cylindrical and internal grinding.
A few thousandths should be left on the work before
grinding.

18

This attachment in the spindle allows bar stock to

pass through the tube and to be gripped in the draw-in
collet ready to be machined. When applying the drawin attachment to the lathe, be sure that the ends of the
spindle hole and the outside of the collet closer are
clean. Any chips or particles of dirt on these surfaces
will destroy the accuracy of the work.

MILLING ATTACHMENT

The attachment consists of a right angle plate which is

mounted on the cross slide in place of the compound rest.
To this plate is mounted a vise which uses two squarehead bolts to hold the work. The entire assembly may be
swiveled 360 on the c r o s s slide, and the vise may be
swiveled 45 on either side of the vertical. This makes
possible setting the work at any angle.
A milling cutter is mounted in the lathe spindle nose
and the work fed p a s t it in any of the following three
ways:

1. Regular lathe length feed.

2. Regular lathe cross feed.
3. Vertical hand feed by means of the crank at the top of
the vise.

The milling attachment i s used to cut slots, keyways,

o r flats on shafts o r small pieces of work. Screw heads
can be slotted and short length racks cut.

With the u s e of t h i s attachment, the field of work

possible on the lathe is greatly extended, since many
light milling operations c a n be accomplished in the
lathe instead of on a heavier, more expensive milling machine.

MEASURING INSTRUMENTS
OUTSIDE CALIPERS

with a screw and adjusting nut for quick setting to size,

whereas the f i r m joint calipers a r e set by tapping one
leg against a solid object. (Not on the lathe bed.) Both
types have their advantages. The spring type i s much
preferred on small work, while on large diameter work,
the solid joint type (because of stiffer legs) is better.

Outside calipers a r e used t o measure the diameters

of the work being turned There a r e three kinds: Spring
calipers (98), firm joint calipers (99), and micrometer
calipers o r "mikes" (102). Spring calipers a r e provided

To set calipers to a diameter with the use of a scale,

hold the scale in left hand and the caliper in the right
hand, using the forefinger to keep one leg from slipping
off the end of the scale and adjust the caliper (100) t o
the dimension required. Some mechanics become quite
expert at setting calipers, acquiring a "feel" that enables
them to s e t calipers to .005 of an inch. In many c a s e s
your work will be to reproduce broken p a r t s , and the
calipers can be set f r o m the broken part. Be certain,
however, that the p a r t is not worn where you s e t tne
calipers. T r y the c a l i p e r s a t different points to s e e
if the piece is round, not egg shaped, and that you a r e not
calipering on the smallest diameter. When calipering a

piece of work it is best to hold the caliper in a vertical

position (101) with the legs at right angles to the axis of
the piece, and adjust to a point where the weight of the
calipers will just allow the points to pass over the diameter of the piece. This slight resistance is known a s the
"feel". Never force the calipers over the piece a s the
legs will spring and inaccuracy will result. If you get the
same "feel" on the sample as you get on the piece being
turned, the diameters will correspond within close limits.
Never t r y to caliper a piece revolving in the lathe
where accuracy i s required. For obtaining the approximate d i a m e t e r t h i s i s permissible, but f o r a c c u r a t e
dimensions, the lathe should be stopped.

"D" when the "mike" i s s e t on a diameter i s the f i r s t

numeral a f t e r the decimal point in your reading. On
the bevel edge of the thimble "E" a r e twenty-five graduations, each of these representing one thousandth of
an inch. In illustration (103) you have showing on the
sleeve seven graduations representing .025 each, equaling 7 x .025 o r . 175, and three graduations on the thimble
beyond the zero (0) mark, each representing .001, so
that the c a l i p e r i s s e t a t .175" plus .003", equaling
.178", o r for greater convenience read the highest numera1 showing on the sleeve, 1 o r one-tenth (.1); beyond
this read the number of graduations showing ( 3 ) , which
equals 3 x .025" o r .075", then add to this the graduations
on the thimble, making .l78". For convenience in using
micrometers, tables of fraction and decimal equivalents,
also English and m e t r i c equivalents, will be found in
Tables section.
When calipering with m i c r o m e t e r s the same "feel"

is n e c e s s a r y a s with other c a l i p e r s , and they should

OUTSIDE MICROMETER CALIPER

The micrometer caliper (102) i s used for measuring
to very close dimensions, its graduations reading t o
one thousandth of an inch. It consists of five principal
p a r t s , the f r a m e "A", the anvil "B", the spindle "C",
the sleeve "D" and the thimble "E". The spindle "C"
has a t h r e a d cut on it which f i t s a tapped hole in the
sleeve "Dl1 which is not exposed. The t h r e a d s a r e cut
40 to the inch so that exactly one revolution of the thimble
"EMadvances the spindle "C" one-fortieth of an inch,
o r twenty-five thousandths (.025) which is the gap between the anvil "B" and the spindle "C", the measuring
point. The sleeve "D" is graduated with 40 divisions to
the inch and numbered 0-1-2, etc. t o 10, a number a t
every fourth division, so that figure one, o r four divisions, represent 4 x .025 of an inch (1/40) o r one-tenth
of an inch (. 100). The number last showing on the sleeve

not be forced over the work. Hold the "mikes" between

the forefinger and the thumb (104) and l e t the weight
c a r r y them over the diameter. Do not caliper with the
piece revolving a s t h i s will damage the anvil and the
end of the spindle. Check the "mikes" occasionally
with a reference disc (standard gauge) t o see that they
register correctly.

INSIDE MICROMETER CALIPER

Inside micrometers (107)

are manufactured for diameters
of one -half inch and up. They
a r e read the same a s outside
micrometers.

INSIDE CALIPERS

Inside calipers a r e used for internal work such a s

bored and reamed holes and a r e made both in the spring
and firm joint type. In setting the calipers to a scale,
hold the scale against a f l a t surface, placing one leg
against the flat surface and adjusting the other leg to
the required dimension (105). If you a r e boring to a c curate dimensions, set a micrometer to the dimension

required and transfer this to your inside caliper. This

can be done best by holding the micrometer in the left
hand and the inside caliper in the right hand (106) and
adjusting it until the p r o p e r "feel" i s obtained, The
adjustment i s obtained by rocking the caliper in a v e r tical plane between the axis of the anvil and spindle of
the micrometer.
When calipering a hole (108) set one leg of the inside
micrometer caliper in the hole, pivoting the caliper in
a vertical plane and adjusting until the other leg enters
the hole. By rocking and adjusting the c a l i p e r , the
proper "feel" a c r o s s the largest diameter can be obtained. If the calipers a r e forced into the hole, the legs
will spring and an inaccurate measurement will be obtained.

When boring a hole to fit a shaft o r turning a shaft

to fit a hole, it i s necessary to transfer measurement
from outside to inside calipers and vice versa. This
can best be done by holding the outside caliper in the
left hand, supporting it between the thumb and forefinger
(109) with the second finger of the left hand supporting
the lower legs of the outside and inside calipers to be
set. The inside calipers a r e held in the right hand with
the adjusting nut between the thumb and forefinger. By
rocking the inside caliper in a vertical plane and adjusting i t until the proper "feel" i s obtained, accurate
transfer from one to the other can be made. Do not use
for exact measuring.

LATHE TOOLS
(1) Straight shank turning tool (113), which can be used
with various types of tool b i t s f o r right- and left-hand
turning, right- and left-hand facing and threading. B i t s
can also be ground to special shapes f o r fillets in c o r n e r s and the like.

E v e r y lathe should be equipped with a complete s e t

of lathe tools f o r turning, facing, threading and boring.
They c a n be of the tool holder type using high- speed
steel bits, such a s a r e made by Williams, A r m s t r o n g
( 111) , o r O.K. (112). T h e s e types a r e the m o s t c o m monly u s e d ; however, f o r g e d tools a r e s t i l l used in
many shops.
A c o m p l e t e s e t of t o o l s c o n s i s t s of the following:

(2) Left- hand offset turning t o o l s (114) a r e d e s i r a b l e

when the operator wishes t o work close to the chuck o r
the driving dog. By using t h i s type of tool it i s possible
to t u r n the piece up to the chuck and a t the s a m e time
have the chuck c l e a r the side of the c a r r i a g e and c o m pound rest.
(3) Right -hand offset turning tools (115) answer the same
purpose when working a t the t a i l s t o c k end. V a r i o u s
shaped b i t s c a n be used in e i t h e r right - o r left -hand
turning tool holders t o suit the work being done.
(3a) Two styles of carbide cutting tools a r e shown. 114a
is the standard righthand turning tool with brazed-on carbide tip. 114b is the triangular insert turning tool. This
is used in high-production operations. Its major advantage is that you have three cutting edges, simply obtained
by indexing the triangular insert.

(4) Straight cutting-off tools (116) a r e used f o r cutting

off in the lathe. The blade used in t h i s tool is ground
with the p r o p e r side clearance. Then, when properly
set in the holder, the tool d o e s not drag.

(5) Right-hand cutting-off tool (117) is used f o r cutting

off work close to the chuck. T o prevent chatter, when
using a tool of t h i s t y p e , e x c e s s i v e o v e r h a n g of the
work should be avoided.

(6) Left-hand cutting-off tool (118) i s f o r use n e a r the

tailstock end of the lathe. T h i s type of tool is ra r e l y
used and in most c a s e s the right-hand and straight cutting-off tools s e r v e a l l purposes.

(7) Threading o r chasing tools (119). There a r e many

patented types of threading tools. The tool shown i s
provided with a formed cutter which i s sharpened by
grinding the top face only. On some classes of material
where it i s not possible to cut a smooth thread with a
rigid chasing tool, a spring threading tool (120) will
produce better results.

The boring bar shown in illustration (122) i s used for

medium size holes and i s adjustable for different depths
of holes. It i s held in the regular tool post by a shank,
the same a s the turning tool.

The spring threading tool i s built with a nut for the

lockable spring head which provides a rigid backing for
coarse threads and heavy cuts, and when loosened, the
holder becomes a spring tool for finishing work. Neither
of these tools i s absolutely essential a s most threads
can be cut by grinding a tool bit to the proper shape,
with the u s e of a t h r e a d gauge.

Figure (123) shows a boring bar for heavy work that

i s held in the compound r e s t T-slot. This makes the
bar more rigid than when held in the tool post. Various
shaped tool bits for boring, facing, counterboring and
threading holes can be used in the different bars.

(8) Boring b a r s and holders. Tools of the type shown

a r e used for boring holes and chasing internal threads.
Two basic types of boring b a r s a r e used, namely, the
forged type and the bar and holder type. Three of the
bar and holder types a r e shown in the accompanying
illustrations. No. 121 i s used for s m a l l holes, which
in addition to holding b a r s with bits a s shown, can be
used to hold boring t o o l s made of d r i l l rod f o r very
s m a l l holes, and a l s o f o r holding d r i l l s f o r drilling.

(9) Knurling tool (124). On some c l a s s e s of work such

a s thumb screws, hand-reamers, plug gages, etc., it i s
necessary to roughen the diameter to give a better grip
and prevent oily fingers from slipping. This is called
knurling and i s used extensively on optical, radio and
o t h e r e l e c t r i c a l work. A tool holder c a r r y i n g two
knurled wheels is fed into the work while it is revolving
and i m p r e s s e s a p a t t e r n on the work. E x t r a wheels
can be obtained for the knurling tool holder to cut various
patterns.

Nomenclature of Lathe Tools

O F F I C I A L A.S.M.E. D E S I G N A T I O N S O F T O O L B I T ANGLES

WORK SURFACE
SIDE R A K E
ANGLE

3ff-'

BACK RAKE GRINDING ANGLE

-(c&EWcK

LSIDF
CLEARANCE

FRONT CLEARANCE

R A K E ANLLE

FINISHED SURFACE

The successful operation of a lathe and the c l a s s of

work turned out depend to a g r e a t extent on the skill
of the operator in grinding his tools. Dull and improperly ground tools throw a heavy strain on the feed mechanism, eat up horsepower, and cause the work to spring
and the lathe to chatter.
Lathe tools are made of carbon steel, high-speed steel
and alloys such a s stellite and cemented carbide. The
cemented carbide tools a r e becoming more generally
used a s t h e i r c o s t is reduced. T h e r e a r e but a few
carbon s t e e l tools used, t h e g e n e r a l p r a c t i c e i s to
use high-speed steel tool bits in holders. Determine
the kind of a tool you a r e grinding, a s carbon and highspeed steel requires different treatment. Tools should
be m a r k e d t o show the kind of m a t e r i a l from which
they a r e made. A quick and simple way to tell whether
a tool i s carbon o r high-speed steel is to grind the end
and watch the sparks. If carbon steel, the wheel will
throw a light colored spark and if high-speed steel, the
sparks will be a dark red.
Carbon steel tools should be ground on a grindstone
or wet emery wheel o r dipped into water often to keep
the tool cool while grinding to prevent the drawing of
the temper. On the other hand, high-speed steel tools
should not be dipped into water when hot a s it will crack
the tool and crumble the cutting edge.
Four angles a r e important in grinding tools and these
vary with the material being machined. The back rake
(see illustration 127 above) "A", the side "B", the front
clearance "C" and the side clearance "D".
The back rake is usually provided for in the tool holder
by the tool being set on an angle (128), which i s correct
for the machining of steel and cast-iron. On solid steel
tools it i s necessary to grind the top rake in the tool.
By adjusting the tool in the tool post through wedge o r
rocker, this top rake can be varied somewhat to suit the
material being turned. The softer the material the less
the top rake should be a s there i s a tendency for the tool
to dig in if the rake is too great.

The side rake "B" (127) also varies with the material
being machined. If this angle is made g r e a t enough,
the tool will drag the carriage along by feeding into the
work of its own accord, especially if the material i s soft.
On the other hand, without side rake, the tool would not
cut and the feed mechanism would be under excessive
strain. The proper angle i s f r o m 6 degrees for soft
material to 15 degrees for steel.
The tool i s ground with the side clearance "D" (127)
to take care of the feed advance and to prevent the drag ging of the tool on the shoulder formed by the cut (131).
This angle is usually about 6 degrees from the vertical
and is constant.
The front clearance "C" (127) depends somewhat on
the diameter work to be turned. To turn cast-iron o r
steel it is advisable to set the tool above center. If the
tool was ground square without any front clearance, it
would not cut, but would rub on the material to be turned
below the cutting edge of the tool (132). The front clearance is necessary for this reason. This clearance should
be l e s s for small diameters than for large diameters.
The clearance should range from 8 to 15 degrees. Do
not grind m o r e front clearance than i s necessary a s
this t a k e s away the support from the cutting edge of
the tool.
Tool bits can be ground best in their own holders.
To prevent grinding the holder, extend the tool beyond
its regular cutting position.
After a tool has been ground on the emery wheel, i t
will produce better work and last longer if the cutting
edge i s stoned with an oil stone. T h i s takes out the
wheel m a r k s and gives a smooth cutting edge. C a r e
must be taken in grinding cut-off tools to see that both
sides of the tool have the necessary side clearance (133).
A tool of this kind also cuts better if a lip i s ground
back of the cutting edge to c u r l the chip as it comes
off the piece (134).
In grinding boring tools, see that the front clearance
i s sufficient to prevent the tool from rubbing in the hole
and dragging at the point "A" (135).

HOLDING WORK IN THE LATHE

There are five general methods of holding work in a
lathe; between centers, on mandrels, in a chuck,
clamped on the face plate, and clamped to the carriage.
Combinations of the above methods can be
employed, such as, chucking one end of a piece and
using the steady rest to support the other and while
facing or boring the free end of the work. Another is to
hold one end of the work in a chuck and the other end
on the tailstock center.
WORK ON CENTERS
The greatest percentage of work machined on a lathe
is held between centers, using the face plate as the
driving plate. The face plate is mounted as indicated in
figure 57.
The work revolves on conical holes drilled in the
ends to fit the lathe centers and is driven by a lathe dog
clamped on the work. The bent tail of the dog fits a
cored slot of the driving plate as shown in figure 58.
The tool is fed along the work by the movement of the
carriage.
A variation of the above method is to use a chuck to
clamp and drive one end of the work while the other
end is supported by the tailstock center as indicated in
figure 60.
Still another variation of center holding is to support
the work on the headstock center and drive it by a lathe
dog, using a steady rest to support the piece at the
tailstock end. With this method, however, it is
necessary to provide straps or some similar means to
hold the work up tight on the headstock center,
otherwise the piece will work off center and destroy the
accuracy of the cut or spoil the work (see figure 68).
WORK ON MANDREL
Many parts such as bushings, gears and collars require all the finished external surfaces to run true with
the hole which extends through them. That is, the outside diameter must be concentric with the inside diameter or bore.
General practice is to finish the hole to a standard
size, that is, exactly right within the limit of the accuracy desired. Thus a 3/4" standard hole would ordinarily be held from .7495" to .7505" or a tolerance

FIG. 58 LATHE DOG TAIL. SECURED IN FACE PLATE SLOT

DRIVES WORK.

of 1/2 thousandth of an inch above or below the true

standard size of exactly .750".
The usual practice in machining work of this kind is
to drill or bore the hole to within a few thousandths of
an inch of the finished size, then remove the remainder
of the material with a machine reamer, following with a
hand reamer if the limits are extremely close. The piece
is then pressed on a mandrel. A dog is clamped on the
mandrel mounted between centers. Since the mandrel
surface runs true with respect to the lathe axis
(provided the centers are not scored or otherwise
damaged), the turned surfaces of the work on the mandrel will be true with respect to the standard hole in the
piece.
A mandrel is simply a round piece of steel of convenient length which has been centered and turned true
with the centers. On mandrels of about 5/8" and
smaller, the whole length is usually tapered. The
common practice is to make the small end 1/4 to 1/2
thousandth of an inch under the standard size of the
mandrel, while the large end is about 1/2 to 1
thousandth of an inch over standard size. This taper
allows the standard hole in the work to vary according
to the usual shop practice, and still provides a drive to
the work when the mandrel

FIG. 57---MOUNTING FACE PLATES

ON A REGAL IS QUICKLY ACCOMPLISHED THANKS TO THE TAPER KEY
DRIVE SPINDLE NOSE WHICH HOLDS
THEM SECURELY AT HIGH SPEEDS .

25

Where close limits are to be held, it is also advisable

to see that the work is not hot when the finish cut is
taken, as the cooling of the piece will leave it undersized if it has been turned to the exact size.
TYPES OF MANDRELS
In addition to the solid mandrel just described, there
are other types, as shown in the illustration.

FIG. 59--MANDRELS
1.SPLIT BUSH

5. THREADED MANDREL

2.SPLIT BUSH MANDREL

6. MANDREL WITH 4 KEYWAYS

3.STANDARD MANDREL

7. STRAIGHT SHOULDER MANDREL

4.MULTI-SPLINED MANDREL 8. EXPANSION PLUG

is pressed into the hole. On mandrels over 5/8" diameter about two-thirds of the length is turned straight,
about 1/4 thousandth of an inch undersize, and the
other third tapered up to about two thousandths of an
inch oversize for drive. Some are made with a very
gradual taper on two-thirds the length from 1/2
thousandth of an inch undersize on the small end to
standard at the end of the two-thirds length, with the
remaining third tapered about two thousandths of an
inch for drive.
Where the hole in the work piece is not of standard
size or if no standard mandrel is available, a soft mandrel may be made to fit the particular piece.
When pressing a mandrel into work, it is well to remember that clean metallic surfaces when pressed together sometimes gall or stick. A few drops of oil on the
mandrel before pressing it into the work will prevent
sticking.

In the expansion type shown a hardened taper

mandrel spreads the split cast-iron sleeve, expanding it
to fit the hole and to drive the piece under the cut.
With the straight mandrel there is no friction drive on
the mandrel itself, it being necessary to have a
shoulder on one end with a nut and collar on the other
end to clamp and drive the work.
The expansion plug is another type of mandrel. The
part holding the work is similar to the expanding end
of an expansion mandrel and it is supported on a taper
plug which fits in the headstock spindle tapered hole.
The work holding portion of the expansion plug is
bored out and split and a taper headed screw expands
the sections which grip the hole of the part to be
machined:
WORK IN CHUCK
A chuck is usually employed to hold work which may
be large in diameter in proportion to its length,
irregular in contour, extremely long, which makes it
necessary for the piece to be passed through the
spindle, or for pieces to be drilled or bored on the axis
of the lathe. Two types of chucks are commonly used.
four-jaw independent chucks (figure 88, page 36), and
three-jaw universal chucks (figure 60).

Commercial mandrels are made of tool steel, hardened, drawn, and the working surface ground, with the
centers lapped for accuracy. Each end is turned
smaller than the body of the mandrel and provided
with a flat which gives a driving surface for the lathe
dog. The size of the mandrel is always marked on the
large end to avoid error, and for convenience when
placing work on it.
It is necessary, of course, to have the centers true in
both the head and tailstock spindles and to have the
tailstock set to turn straight, otherwise the finish
turned surface will not be true.
When finish turning accurate work it is well to test
the mandrel between centers before placing any work
on it. The best test for run-out is made with an indicator.
When taking roughing cuts on a piece of work
mounted on a mandrel, it is necessary to have a tighter
press fit than for finishing. Therefore, on pieces with a
thin wall or section of metal, it is advisable to remove
the work from the mandrel after the roughing cut and
reload lightly on the mandrel before taking the finish
cut.

26

FIG. 60 JAW CHUCK HOLDS WORK SECURELY AT

HEADSTOCK END.

THREE-JAW UNIVERSAL CHUCK

This chuck is designed so that all jaws move together
or apart in unison. When new, a universal chuck will
center almost exactly at the first clamping, but after a
period of use it is not uncommon to find inaccuracies
of from two to 10 thousandths of an inch in centering
the work and consequently the run-out of the work
must be corrected. (See mounting and adjusting work
in three jaw chucks, page 28).

After the positioning has been accomplished in a chuck,

be s u r e t o tighten a l l the s c r e w s evenly, so that each
jaw is tight against the piece to prevent it slipping under
cut.
When chucking thin sections be careful not to clamp
the work too tightly, a s then the diameter of the piece
will be turned round when it i s in a distorted position.
When the pressure of the jaws is released after the cut,
there will be a s many high spots a s there a r e jaws, and
the turned surface will not be true.
When not in use, face plates and chucks should be
stored where they will not become covered with chips
and dirt.
FITTING CHUCK PLATES TO CHUCKS

Mount the chuck plate to the spindle in the same mann e r a s mounting face plate t o spindle (see figure 57).
Rough face front face and rough turn outside diameter
1/32" above diameter of counterbore in chuck. Also
counterbore the spindle hole in the plate at 45 t o 1/8"
a c r o s s flat; next take finish cut off face of chuck plate.
Caliper counterbore of chuck and transfer size to outside mikes. Finish turn OD to fit counterbore allowing
f o r a slight tap fit.
To transfer the holes in the chuck to the chuck plate,
use the chuck a s a drill jig. Lightly tap the chuck plate
into the chuck counterbore and spot d r i l l through the
chuck body t o the plate with body size drill. Without
removing chuck plate, d r i l l in spotted holes with the
proper tap drill for the screws furnished with the chuck.

The accuracy of a three- o r four-jaw chuck in holding

work in the proper position i s largely a question of the
care used in fitting the chuck plate to the chuck (on those
chucks that require plates), With chucks that have integral mountings (that is, with chucks having the mounting
a s an integral p a r t of the chuck) , the accuracy i s built
into the chuck during i t s manufacture.
It i s imperative that the chuck plate should have a
good fit on the spindle nose threads o r taper. The chuck
plate on all Regal lathes is held true to the lathe spindle
axis by the fit of the taper spindle nose in the tapered
bore of the chuck plate. C u r r e n t model Regals have
the taper key drive spindle nose.
Chuck plates a r e supplied by LeBlond in both s e m i fitted and full-fitted styles. A semi-fitted chuck plate
i s machined to fit the spindle nose only. The full-fitted
chuck plate, a s i t s name implies, i s completely machined
and assembled to the chuck s o that no further work i s
necessary.
The procedure to fit plates i s a s follows:

SPOT DRILL

TAP DRILL

FIG. 62--DRILLING CHUCK PLATE USING CHUCK AS JIG.

Start taps into tap holes, tapping from front of chuck

to insure proper tap alignment. Center punch plate and
chuck so that they may be re-assembled in the position
in which they a r e drilled; remove chuck plate, finish tap
holes and file off burrs.
The plate can also be mounted with the chuck bolts
going through both the chuck body and plate and held
with nuts against the back of the chuck plate. The procedure would be the same as the foregoing, omitting the tapping operation. If the hub on the plate is shorter than the
height of the nuts, the l a t t e r method cannot be used.
When body holes a r e not drilled through chuck, chalk
chuck plate f a c e thoroughly, wipe off mating face of
chuck back, then t a p chuck plate in position in chuck
counterbore. Outline of bolt holes will show up on the
chalked surface when chuck body i s removed. Center
punch plate and chuck for location and remove. Mark
off holes, c e n t e r punch circle and center for drilling.
Drill with body size drill to allow clearance f o r chuck
screws.
Clean chuck counterbore and chuck plate thoroughly.
R e a s s e m b l e in p r o p e r position and i n s e r t and d r a w
screws up tight.
When chuck plate assembly i s put on lathe spindle,
the body of chuck should run true. A true piece of short
shaft when clamped in a universal chuck should run
true within .002" if work has been done properly.

6. Loosen chuck jaws, revolve work one-third or onequarter turn, tighten and retest. Repeat if necessary.
7. If work still runs out, mount a tool in the tool post,
back-end to, and while revolving lathe very slowly by
hand or power, adjust cross slide until butt of tool
holder just clears high spot on work. Revolve work onehalf revolution and note amount of error.
8. Select shims one-half as thick as the observed
runout. Loosen jaws and insert shims between work
and the jaw or two jaws nearest the chalk mark on the
side.
9. If work must be chucked very accurately it is easier
and much more accurate to use an indicator and
secure an exact reading of the run-out in thousandths
of an inch.
FIG. 63--3-JAW CHUCK USED FOR HOLDING FACING JOB.

MOUNTING AND ADJUSTING WORK IN THREE-JAW

CHUCKS

When work is finally centered, be sure that all jaws

bear on work hard enough to drive work without
slipping while under cut.

2. Place work in chuck, seating face of work against

vertical faces of jaws.

When work is to be roughed, and then finished while

held in a chuck and the section of metal is not solid, it
is usually advisable to release pressure on jaws and
then reclamp lightly for finish turning. Otherwise the
work may be turned "round" while in a sprung
condition. When pressure is finally released, the work
assumes its normal position and the turned or bored
diameter is no longer round.

3. Tighten jaws, as indicated above.

FOUR-JAW CHUCK

4. Revolve lathe at speed set for the operation to be

performed.

This chuck has four jaws, each individually

adjustable with an appropriate wrench. Where
considerable adjusting is necessary to center a piece, it
is much simpler and quicker to use a four-jaw
independent chuck. This type of chuck is the most
adaptable of all for regular machine shop practice as
the equalization of jaw position may be made so much
more quickly, easily and accurately with the individual
jaw adjustment.

1. Adjust jaws approximately to size required. Place

wrench in any pinion socket and turn to right to
advance jaws toward the center.

5. Run carriage up to work, rest hand on carriage and

hold chalk to just touch revolving work as indicated
below. Chalk will touch high spot, indicating high side.

Using the four adjustments, any shaped piece of

work may be positioned to bring the desired point on
the work over the axis or center of lathe.
When chucking an irregular piece in the four-jaw
chuck so that a round boss will run true, the following
procedure should be observed. The piece should be
inserted in the chuck and the jaws brought down to an
approximate clamping position. The piece should then
be held flat against the back face of the jaw steps and
clamped. Next, the lathe spindle should be rotated
either by hand or slowly by power, and a piece of chalk
held to touch the high spot as the piece revolves. The
screw or two screws directly opposite the chalk mark
should then be loosened slightly, and the opposite
screw or screws tightened and the chalk test repeated.
A few trials should be sufficient to locate the work in
the desired position.

FIG. 64 FINDING HIGH SPOT BY CHALKING

28

The same procedure is followed in clamping semi-or

fully finished pieces in the chuck, except that the
position is necessarily held to a closer limit before
chucking is considered completed. An indicator of the
dial type may be used to ascertain the run-out if the
limit is extremely close.

COLLET OR DRAW-IN CHUCK

FIG. 65 SJOGREN TYPE COLLET CHUCK

The Sjogren type collet chuck is shown in figure 65;

the handwheel type on page 18. Both types are extremely accurate and are used to hold relatively small
parts for additional machining operations.
The collet is a split cylinder with a male taper on the
projecting end. The male taper is pulled into a female
taper, thus closing the collet. The collet has a hole of
standard size or slightly larger. To clamp or grip a piece
of work, insert it in the collet and draw the collet back
into the closer by means of the handwheel.

The small face plate is used mainly to provide a drive

to a lathe dog clamped on work. However, a stud may
be bolted to the face plate to engage a projection on the
work which then acts as its own dog.

The large face plate is usually used in a different

manner. Fundamentally, it is used to provide a plane
surface at right angles to the axis of the spindle, on
which the work is mounted for turning, boring, drilling.
By means of a 90 angle plate, as illustrated above,
many additional jobs may be mounted for lathe work.
For the purpose of fastening work to the face plate,
radial slots are provided to engage bolts used to clamp
the work.
An outline of a few typical face plate jobs illustrates
both the types of job and manner of fastening.

WORK ON FACE PLATE

Many jobs are of such a nature that due to physical
dimensions they are most conveniently mounted on the
face plate. They may be fastened to the face plate by Tbolts, clamp dogs, or planer type stops as best suited
to the job.
Face plate boring is used in many cases where flat
work is to be bored. Small jigs may be bored while
mounted on the face plate and the holes located by
means of the center punch marks for rough work, or
by using tool-makers' buttons if the work must be
performed accurately. Toolmakers' buttons are merely
small hollow cylinders, generally .300", .400" or .500"
in diameter by 7/16" long, ground round and straight
on the outside diameter and having the ends square
with the outside surface.
A small hole is tapped in the jig or part to be
machined in the approximate location of the hole to be
bored to receive the screw that holds the button. The
hole through the cylindrical button is larger than the
diameter of the screw allowing for movement of the
button to locate it accurately. The outside diameter of
the button is accurately located over the hole to be
bored, by the use of straight edges and mikes, and
then the button is positioned over the axis of the lathe,
after which the hole is bored. The accuracy of the
positions of the holes is thus limited only by the
accuracy of the button positions and the accuracy with
which the buttons are centered on the lathe
preparatory to boring.

A motor base would be clamped to face plate, with

the under side of base against face plate, to enable the
surfacing of upper side of base by a facing cut in lathe.
A bracket, with axis of the hole perpendicular to face
of bearing surface, could be bored very easily by means
of an angle plate mounting as illustrated 2 above.
Trepanning may be easily accomplished by bolting
material to face plate, as illustrated 1 above.
Trepanning is the term used to denote cutting out a
washer or some such similar piece from a flat, relatively thin piece of stock which could not be bored
and held on a mandrel as could a regular turning job
such as a bushing.
A part, such as a round pipe, with a large hole and
flanges, is readily faced on both ends by face plate
mounting (1 above).
Boring jobs where several holes must be bored of
specific dimensions, can be well handled with this
mounting.
Face plates, as illustrated 3 above, may be specially
prepared for certain classes of work. For instance, the
face plate may be cast solid, that is without slots, and
may be provided with a large number of tapped bolt
holes arranged in circles so as to provide bolting sur-

29

face for many kinds of odd-shaped pieces. Also a solid

face plate may be provided with a groove similar to a
keyway to facilitate mounting angle plates similarly
provided with slots by means of a key and appropriate
clamping.
An odd job plate such as described above is recommended for every lathe installation. Such a plate should
be kept ready with various size clamps and clamping
bolts to facilitate mounting of odd-sized pieces.
A small milling machine vise may be clamped to the
plate and used to hold odd-sized parts for flat facing.
This method is extremely useful in facing small oddshaped pieces if a chuck is not available.
FACING WORK HELD IN A CHUCK OR FACE PLATE
Work that is large in diameter in proportion to length
or that has no hole for mandrel mounting is usually held
in the three- or four-jaw chuck for facing off end. Other
pieces of odd shapes are sometimes held most
advantageously on a face plate and machined in this
position. Work should be chucked with as little overhang
as possible to provide a rigid mounting and eliminate
chatter.
If a cored or machined hole is present, it is advisable
to start cut at inside and feed to outer edge when facing,
as this direction of feed gives much better results than
feeding from outside edge in, since it is easier to set the
tool at center height at the center than at the OD of the
work.
In facing, as above, a right-hand turning bit should be
used in a right-hand or straight tool holder, as facing in
this manner requires a tool similar to a tool used in
turning toward the headstock.
The finish cuts are best taken with the right-hand side
facing tool sharpened for the material being cut.
For finishing, use right-hand finishing tool as before,
except that tool should be fed into work at the center so
as to leave no point at exact center of work. The tool is
then fed outward as before.
For roughing cuts, tool should be set a bit above
center, as in turning large diameters. In finishing, tool
should be exactly on center.
WORK CLAMPED TO CARRIAGE
Many variations of chucking work are possible. Work
may also be bolted to the carriage or the carriage slide
while the hole is machined with a fly cutter mounted in a
boring bar held between centers and driven by a lathe
dog. This method is used largely where the piece to be
bored is too large to swing in the lathe, or is too bulky or
awkward to handle properly.

FIG. 68 CORRECT USE OF STEADY REST

close and clamp the upper part of the steady rest, and
bring the jaws to bear lightly on the finished "spot" with
a running clearance. The clearance is set by means of
the adjusting screws. To prevent scoring, oil the jaws
each time a piece is clamped in the steady rest. To
remove the piece, loosen the clamp bolt and swing the
upper part of the steady rest back. Thus the pieces can
be changed without changing the adjustment of the
jaws.
The best way to align a steady rest to hold the unsupported end of a piece for boring is to place a bar of
the same diameter, as the piece to be machined, between
centers and adjust the jaws to it. Then remove the bar
and place the piece in position. This method insures the
proper centering of the steady rest (see figure 68).
FOLLOW REST
The follow rest differs from the steady rest in that it
moves with the carriage and provides support against
the forces of the cut only. The tool should be set to the
diameter selected and a "spot" turned about 5/8" to 3/4"
wide. Then the follow rest jaws should be adjusted to the
finished diameter to follow the tool along the entire
length to be turned.
The follow rest is indispensable when chasing threads
on long screws, as it allows the cutting of a screw with a
uniform pitch diameter. Without the follow rest the
screw would be inaccurate, due to its springing away
from the tool.

STEADY REST
The steady rest should be placed where it will give the
greatest support to the piece to be turned, which is
generally about the middle of the piece. However, the
best position is obviously determined by the design of
the piece.
If the part to be supported has a diameter of short
width to be turned, this can be finished with a fine feed
and slow speed and used as the supporting position in
the steady rest.
If the construction does not determine the position of
the steady rest, turn a "spot" about the middle of the
piece to be turned. Place the part between centers, with
the steady rest in position at the turned "spot",

30

FIG. 69 FOLLOW REST SUPPORTS WORK CLOSE TO

CUTTING TOOL.

LATHE OPERATIONS
CENTERING WORK
Lathe work may be divided into two general classes,
namely, work machined between centers and work machined in chucks. B a r o r shaft work i s done between
the centers, the piece to be turned having been previously
centered.
There are many ways of centering a piece of material.
In large production shops this work is done in a centering
machine. In s m a l l shops the lathe operator us u a l l y
centers his own work. The first thing to do is to find
the center on each end of the piece. This can be done
by using hermaphrodite c a l i p e r s . Set the caliper to
about one -half the diameter of the piece, chalk the end
of the piece so the scribe marks can be seen, and scribe
four a r c s , one from each quarter of the circumference
(136). The center of the piece lies between the four arcs.

After the center h a s been found on each end of the

piece and it has been centerpunched, the actual drilling
of the center can be done under a drill p r e s s o r in the
lathe itself.

eIIY9
/39
-

Center d r i l l s (139) a r e usually used for centering.

The drill is held in a drill chuck (as shown on page 16),
having a shank that fits the taper hold in the headstock
spindle. The tailstock is set on the bed the proper distance from the headstock to permit holding the piece in
the c e n t e r punch m a r k s between the c e n t e r and the
centering drill (140). To keep the piece from rotating,
Mark the center thus located with a center punch. P e r form the same operation on the other end of the piece
and it i s ready to have the centers drilled.
The center of a piece can also be located by the use
of a center head on a combination square. Draw two
lines a t about right angles to each other. Where they
bisect will be the center of the piece (137).

hold it with the left hand, and advance the tailstock

spindle with the tailstock screw handle. The piece is
fed into the drill and the one end center drilled. The
piece is then r e v e r s e d and the other end i s drilled.
This method is used for centering rough bar stock where
the entire length i s to be turned.
T o c e n t e r finish ground stock such as d r i l l rod o r
cold-rolled steel, where the ends a r e to be turned and
must be concentric with the unturned body, other methods
must be used.

To center i r e g u l a r l y s haped pieces such as a drop

forged brake lever, lay the piece in a V-block (138) on
a plane surface and use a surface gauge for scribing the
lines on each end. F i r s t set the gauge to the approximate height of the center and scribe a line. Turning
the piece, scribe three more lines, each at about 90.
The center of the piece is in the center of the square
formed by the scribed lines.

If the piece is small enough in diameter to pass through

the spindle, it can be held in a universal chuck on the
spindle nose (141), or a draw-in collet (page 18). Hold the
center drill in a drill chuck in the tailstock spindle and center
drill one end; reverse the piece, and proceed as before.
If a piece must be centered very accurately, the tapered
center should be rebored after center drilling, to correct any
run-out of the center drill. This is done by grinding a tool bit
to a center gauge at a 60 angle. Then with the tool holder
held in the tool post, set the compound rest at 30 with line
of centers (142).

Set the tool exactly on the center for height and adjust to
the proper angle with a center gauge. By feeding the tool in
on this angle, any run-out of the center is corrected (143).

The tool bit should be relieved under the cutting edge to

prevent the tool dragging or rubbing in the hole (144).

To center long pieces that will not pass through the

spindle, a steady rest is used to support the outside end of
the piece as near the end as possible (145). The drill and
chuck are held in the tailstock spindle and the drill fed to
depth by advancing the tailstock spindle. To correct any runout of the center use the same methods as described before.
It is absolutely essential that the centers in the piece to be
machined conform to the centers in the lathe so that the
sides of the center in the piece have uniform bearing on the
lathe center. Lathe centers are ground on a 60 included
angle and can be tested with a center gauge (146). To do
good work the lathe centers must

fit the drilled centers. If the center bearing is not uniform, the
work will not be round but it is likely to be tapered due to the
rapid wear of the center hole. Another result of improperly
drilled centers is chatter marks due to the piece being loose
between the centers.

Avoid conditions such as are shown in 147, 148, and 149.

This is especially true of the tailstock end or dead center. To
test for the kind of bearing the lathe center is taking in the
work, rub a little red lead on the lathe center and spin the
piece on the centers by hand, The bearing surface will be
bright. If the bearing is incomplete, correct it as directed
above.
TESTING LATHE CENTERS

FIG. 82 CHECKING FOR RUN-OUT

The center in the lathe should run true. To test this

an indicator is necessary. The indicators are usually
of the dial type and read in thousandths of an inch.
When testing the headstock center try the indicator
first on the point of the center to see that the spindle
has no end movement. If the indicator is tried on

32

the angle of the center when the headstock spindle has

end play, the reading on the indicator dial will be inaccurate and misleading. However, if there is no end
play in the spindle and the indicator shows run-out on
the headstock center, then the three possible points of
error should be checked and correction made.
The first and most probable source of trouble is the
presence of dirt or chips in the taper hole between the
spindle and the center bushing, or between the center
bushing and the center itself. To correct this trouble,
remove the center and the center bush, clean the taper
holes in the spindle and the center bush and the
outside of both the center bush and the center. Replace
the bush and the center and again test with the
indicator.
The second source of trouble may be the presence of
a burr or scratch on the surface of the spindle tapered
hole or on the surface of the center bush. Since the
center bush is hardened (about file hard), it is very
seldom that trouble from this source occurs. It
happens at times, however, that there is a burr in the
spindle hole, caused by a drill chuck shank turning
under cut or some similar occurrence. Should this be
the case, carefully remove the burr with a scraper,
being careful to remove only the high spot, or use a
Morse taper reamer of appropriate size.

cut smoothly. When repointing a hard center, it is

necessary to grind it, as the center is harder than the
turning tools. The procedure for grinding is a s follows:
As before, the first step is to set the compound rest
over to 30 degrees with the axis of the lathe. Next,
mount a tool post grinder in the tool post slide. Third,
cover the exposed ways of the lathe with cloth or paper
to prevent the grinding grit reaching the bearing
surfaces of the bed and cross slides. Fourth, put the
headstock in gear to give approximately 200 rpm. to
the spindle, and take a light cut over the center point,
feeding the wheel across the point by means of the
compound rest handle. Continue to feed the wheel
back and forth until it is cutting evenly all around and
on the entire length of the center point, and then check
the angle with a standard center gauge. Reset the
compound rest if necessary and continue grinding
until the center fits the center gauge accurately. The
accuracy of the fit can be observed by placing a light
beneath the center and looking for light between the
center point surface and the edge of the center point
gauge.
ALIGNMENT OF CENTERS

FIG. 83 GRINDING LATHE CENTER

LeBlond Regal Lathes are tested before shipping, and

the taper holes in both headstock and tailstock spindle
have been reamed clean and true. Operators should
make every effort to retain the original accuracy of the
lathe, being careful to preserve smooth clean taper
holes in the head and tailstock spindles, as the
accuracy of the lathe is largely dependent on the
bearing of the centers in the tapered center holes.
The third cause of center run-out is inaccuracy of the
center point itself. Since both hard and soft centers
may be used in the headstock spindle, two methods of
correction are outlined.
For soft centers it is only necessary to set the compound rest at 30 with the axis of the lathe and take a
a skim cut over the point with a lathe tool sharpened to

When turning straight work, try alignment of

tailstock center with headstock to be sure work will not
be tapered.
When zero marks are in line on tailstock, top and
bottom, centers are approximately in line, but due to
the impossibility of seeing an error of .001"
misalignment, it is probable that the work will be
tapered if a more sensitive test than this is not applied
to the center alignment.
A test bar as shown is easy to make and use and
gives positive results.
The tool is set to just miss one end and then the carriage is run to the other end to see if tool registers the
same as the end first tried. If adjustment is as

33

close as can be made by eye, a trial cut of about 2

thousandths depth is taken on one end and then a
similar cut is taken on the other end. The two cuts are
checked with micrometers and any error corrected by
moving the tailstock one-half the error. If work is small
at tailstock end, move tailstock away from tool edge. If
tailstock end is large, move tailstock toward tool edge.
With this test the work can be held to any desirable
limit of straightness.
Another method is to have perfectly straight test
piece and try center alignment with this piece held
between centers. A dial type indicator mounted on the
compound rest will show up any error in alignment.
Before testing with a straight piece, check live center in
head to see that it runs true.
When shifting tailstock to line up centers: Unscrew
handwheel, thus removing center from work; loosen
hold-down clamp screws; loosen adjusting screw on
side opposite to desired motion of tailstock top; tighten
adjusting screw til indicator reads zero; reclamp
tailstock hold-down clamp bolts; readjust tailstock
center in work and re-check for alignment.
FACING TO LENGTH

One of the operations done most frequently on a

lathe is facing the ends of a piece to length. The
procedure is as follows:
1. Measure piece to determine how much stock is to be
taken off.
2. Be sure center holes are free of dirt, chips, etc., and
have no burr on the edge of the center hole.
3. Put red or white lead or other center lubricant in
center on tailstock end.
4. Tighten driving dog on work and place on live or
headstock center and then run dead center into place.
Hold work with left hand and adjust tailstock center
with right hand until work can be turned easily on
centers but has no end play. Clamp tailstock spindle.
5. Another method is to put work between centers, run
up tail center until tight and back off until just free.
Start lathe. Lathe dog tail will click as face plate and
work revolve. Tighten tailstock until clicking just stops
and clamp tailstock spindle. After a few trials the
operator will learn to judge the proper setting of the
tailstock center by feel.
Caution: if center is too tight it may burn off and
work will "fly" out of lathe.
6. If stock to be turned off is slight, say 1/64" to 1/32",
the right-hand side finishing tool may be used. If the
stock is about 1/16" to 1/8" or more, however, the end
should first be roughed off with the right-hand corner
tool as far as possible toward center. Then the finish
tool should be used to remove burr around center and
a skim face cut taken for a smooth finish.
The corner tool, as stated above, is used for roughing
off to length and cuts from outside toward center of
work.
The finishing tool, however, is only used for skim
cuts and cuts from the center hole out to the outside
diameter.
For roughing cut, set edge of corner tool exactly on
center of work and run the cross slide in until tool just
misses the OD of work; measure work with scale and
set tool edge to cut length so as to leave a skim cut for
finishing. If excess length cannot be removed in one
cut, split the excess amount into about equal parts and
rough down to length.

FIG. 85 FLAT MILLED TAILSTOCK CENTER USED WHEN

FACING TO LENGTH.

34

7. Remove corner tool and put right side facing tool in

holder. Clamp tool, set holder so tool edge is exactly on
center line of work and tool edge is at slight angle with
end of work, the point of the tool doing the cutting.
8. Feed tool into ridge around center hole until ridge is
cut off flush with end of work. Use both longitudinal
and cross motions for this operation, feeding them by
hand.
9. Set point of tool toward headstock, adjacent to
center, clamp carriage and start tool out by hand feed,
after about 1/4 turn of cross feed handwheel, throw in
feed clutch and take rest of cut out to edge of work
under power.
10. The surface of the cut above taken should be very
smooth and without tool marks.
If tool marks are evident, the following points should
be checked:

The feed is too great; from 3 to 8 thousandths of an

inch is the usual range.
The tool edge is at too great an angle to the line of
the surface being faced.
There is a burr on the tool point such as would be
caused by running point of tool into tailstock center
when removing ridge around center hole.
To insure a smooth finish cut, sharpen tool with a
small hand stone just before the finish skim cut.
Steel finishing side tools are ground with a 10 to 12
side clearance about 10 to 15 side rake, no back rake,
and about 8 front clearance.
For cast iron and brass, the same clearance except
no side rake is used on tool.
11. When facing to length it is possible to use the regular tailstock center. It is, however, much handier if a
groove, or flat is milled or ground on the taper portion
so as to provide clearance for the tool edge. This
clearance space allows the use of standard shaped
tools when facing to length instead of sharp pointed
ones necessary to get into space between end of work
and regular center.

Special boring bars of single and multiple tool types

may also be used, provided the amount of work justifies the extra expense of the special tools, However, for
the most part, single point boring is used on a single
piece or small lot jobs.
Boring tools may be either of the solid forged type or
of the inserted cutting bit type. The use of either
depends upon the operator's choice or preference with
reference to the respective costs. It is advisable, wherever possible to bore the hole within a few thousandths
of the finished size and then to finish ream the hole to
exact size.
The three above operations, while distinct items of
individual operations, are often performed in sequence
on a single piece of work at the same work setting, that
they will be considered together.
We will assume piece to be drilled has been properly
mounted on face plate or in chuck. (See articles on
chucking and face plate mounting, in section on
"Holding Work in the Lathe").
Spot center with center drill to provide true point of
entry for small drill.

The necessary flat may be ground by hand on a

bench grinder. When grinding flat, be sure to grind less
than half way through point as otherwise the center
would become in effect a center reamer and would cut
the center larger and allow the work to loosen between
centers and wobble.
Chatter marks on finish cut are caused by one of the
following:
1. Speed of work is too high -- slow work down.
2. Feed is too high -- slow feed down.
3. Tool edge is set too nearly parallel with edge of work
being cut -- increase angle of tool slightly.
DRILLING, BORING AND REAMING
Holes may be drilled with the lathe by driving the
drill in the headstock spindle, holding the work against
a pad on the tailstock spindle and using the tailstock
spindle motion for feed. Small pieces may be held on
the face plate or in a chuck while the drill is held and
fed by the tailstock spindle.
Holes and counterbores are easily machined in a
lathe. The advantage of boring is that a perfectly round
true hole is obtained. Two or more holes of the same or
different diameters may be bored at one setting, thus
insuring absolute alignment of the axis of the holes.

FIG. 87 SINGLE POINT BORING

Drill through piece with 1/8" or 1/4" drill to clear flat

tip of larger drill used to remove bulk of metal and to
permit entry of boring tool if used.

Work to be bored may be held in a chuck, bolted to the

face plate, or bolted to the carriage slide. The tailstock
end of long pieces may be supported in a steady rest
(see figure 68, page 30).

If hole is to be just a rough job both as to size and

straightness, use large drill 1/64" or 1/32" smaller
than finish size, and run through piece. Drill is held in
taper hole in tailstock spindle if taper shank drill is
used, or in drill chuck mounted in tailstock spindle if
straight shank drill is used.

Single point boring is the process of rotating the

work either in a chuck or on a face plate while a tool is
fed into a drilled or cored hole in the work.

A dog clamped to the drill as illustrated in figure 88

will prevent its rotation and the resultant scoring-of
the tailstock center hole.

35

Hold center hole in reamer against tailstock center

and guide the cutting or reamer end into hole, as right
hand turns tailstock handwheel to bring reamer up to
work. Run lathe spindle at about 40 rpm. Reamer
should be prevented from rotating by clamping wrench
on reamer and allowing handle to stop on carriage wing
or bar held in tool post. Start lathe and feed reamer in
by tailstock handwheel. On cast iron or brass no
lubrication is necessary. On steel and wrought iron, it
is advisable to lubricate with lard oil or some similar
lubricant.
Above method produces a reamed hole, but hole may
not be exactly straight or parallel with axis of lathe,
due to fact that large drill previously used may have
run slightly off the straight path. The reamer in this
case follows the crooked hole.

FIG. 88 LATHE DOG HOLDS DRILL AND PREVENTS

IT FROM ROTATING

A reamer can be held either on the taper shank in the

tailstock bore, in a drill chuck mounted in the tailstock
spindle, or held in line with the tailstock center of the
lathe.

To produce absolutely straight and true holes, drill

used to rough-cut stock should leave hole about 3/64"
to 1/16" small.
Use boring bar mounted in tool post (as illustrated),
and bore hole until about eight to ten thousandths
stock is left.
To act as true guide for reamer, bore hole at outer
end -- or the end the reamer enters -- 1/8" deep about
three thousandths small.
Proceed with rough and finish reamers if both are
available.
If roughing reamer is not available, leave only 3 to 5
thousandths stock for finish reaming after boring.
Variations in the procedure outlined above are numerous, and will suggest themselves to the operator, but
the general procedure is the same in all cases.
Points to be remembered when performing the above
operation include the following:
Straighter holes are made with a drill held from rotating and fed into the revolving work, than with a revolving drill in a stationary piece. A small pilot hole to
clear the flat tip of a larger drill to follow allows the
drilling of the larger hole quicker and with less power.
To insure a straight hole, singlepoint bore the hole
after drilling and before reaming. Boring tools generally
used are the single point type for rotating work, and
bar type for fixed work where bar rotates between
centers and work is fed past the cutter bit. Steel
requires lubricant, it is advantageous on brass or cast
iron, but not necessary. Boring tool tips should have
clearance and rake similar to turning tools used on the
respective materials. When boring to finished size, if no
reamer is available, take last cut with feed entirely
through piece, then reverse feed without changing
boring tool setting and feed tool out again. The slight
natural spring of the tool and the crossed feed line will
assist in producing a smooth finished hole. In this connection it should be pointed out that the rounder nose
the tool has the smoother the job if chatter does not
occur. In case of chatter, slow work up. If this does not
eliminate the trouble, try a more pointed nose on tool.
Also try changing center height of tool.

36

Boring is very accurate with work mounted on a face

plate and offers possibilities in boring a number of
holes at accurate center dimensions by use of buttons,
discs or some similar method of location (see page 29),
Boring is a simple and accurate method of machining
a true straight hole, for both single hole jobs, which
must be produced quickly and economically without
jigs,and very accurate work where a hole must be
bored true with relation to other holes or surfaces.
After boring hole to within a few thousandths of
finished size, a reamer is generally passed through
holes to produce the exact size required.
DRILLING, BORING AND REAMING; WORK HELD ON
CROSS SLIDE OR CARRIAGE

In this particular type of drilling and boring, the work

remains stationary and the cutting tool rotates. The
feed of work relative to tool is obtained by moving the
carriage on which the work is mounted.
Boring two holes on the same axis may be done very
accurately by this method. If the work is mounted on
the compound rest, two sets of holes may be bored
with axis parallel and to very close limits. By mounting
the drill in the spindle and feeding the work onto the
drill clearance holes can be opened to allow the boring
bar to pass through, to finish bore the hole. If the holes
are cored in the casting, the boring bar may clear the
cored hole and the rough and finish bore operations
may be proceeded with directly. Otherwise open up
cored hole with drill or single point boring tool.

by taper clamping plugs. Bars of this kind are easily

made and present no difficulty, since all that is
necessary is to make a bar as large as can be passed
through the rough hole with 1/8" clearance -- long
enough to suit width of work plus travel of work for
cut. Center this bar on both ends and place between
centers with work in position at start of cut. Mark
location for cutting tool, remove bar, drill for bit and
clamp screw and bar is ready for use. Drive boring bar
with lathe dog.
TAPPING
Taps may be held on the tailstock center in the same
manner as the drill shown in figure 88, to secure a
tapped thread in line with the drilled hole.
A die holder may also be fitted to the tailstock
spindle or to the compound rest to facilitate cutting
threads on a turned pin or bolt held in a chuck. On
work of this class a hand feed or floating connection is
preferred so that the tap or die may travel along the cut
thread at its own rate of travel without influence by the
feed of the tailstock spindle which may not be fed
correctly by hand. The proper unit to use for this work
is a turret mounted on the bed of the lathe. However,
this unit is special and unless there is a large quantity
of work of the type mentioned, the cost will be
excessive for the benefit derived.
Self-opening dies and self-closing taps are available
which automatically release the cutting edges from the
threads at the end of the cut. These units, also, are
useful only when the lots of pieces to be machined are
large.
STRAIGHT TURNING ON CENTERS
Be sure lathe centers are in alignment and that live
center runs true. Put dog on work, clean all dirt, chips
or burrs from center holes and adjust between centers,
putting center lubrication in tailstock center hole. Use
tool properly ground to shape for the operation and
material being worked. Tighten tool in the holder so
that it does not project more than 1 times its
thickness nor less than 3/4 of its thickness from the
front of the holder.

BORING WITH A BAR BETWEEN CENTERS

The boring described in previous sections has been
devoted to the types where the tool was mounted in a
bar either held in the tool post or in the spindle of the
lathe.
A third variation is possible. The work may be
mounted on the carriage or cross slide and the hole
bored out by a tool bit mounted in a boring bar
between centers of the lathe. This method is very
useful when boring long holes or where the piece is
mounted easier by bolting down flat than by holding in
a rotary chuck.
The tool bit may be held in any practicable manner,
such as clamping by set screws, by screws and nuts or

FIG. 91 PROPER TOOL BIT PROJECTION

37

When tool is set to proper depth of cut, throw in feed

and cut to required dimension, or, if work is to be
turned entire length, to a little over half the length.
Have gibs on cross-slide tight enough so a positive
top raked tool will not draw the cross slide into work.
Throw out feed, stop lathe, and remove work from
centers.

FIG. 92TOOL SET SQUARE WITH AXIS FOR STRAIGHT TURNING

Return carriage to starting position and reverse work

between centers, or put in another piece for same operation.

Set tool holder square with axis of work so that any

movement of tool will lessen the depth of cut and not
dig into the work, as illustrated below. Tool holder
should be as close to tool post as possible for rigidity
and still allow bit clamp screw to be turned by its
wrench. Be sure the compound rest is as far back on
bottom slide as is necessary to avoid overhang of the
slide.
Adjust tool bit cutting edge by rocking tool holder on
tilting wedge until cutting edge is at proper height,
then clamp tight.

After all roughing work is completed, put round nose

finishing tool in tool holder, set lathe for correct finishing speed (see Cutting Speeds, page 47) and set feed for
finish cut.

A tool properly ground should have the point set on

the center line of the work. Some operators make a
practice of setting the tool above the center line, about
1/64 of an inch for each 1" clearance in diameter. This,
however, necessitates changing the clearance and rake
angles of the tool and for this reason we do not recommend it for the student or beginner.

FINISH ALLOWANCE

Set tool for a light cut to true up all around; turn

about 1/4" and "mike" diameter of part thus turned.
Set tool in the amount work is oversize by means of the
micrometer adjusting dial, and again turn 1/4". Turn
only far enough from end to properly measure
diameter, both to save time and avoid spoilage of piece.

On work to be finish ground, make the finish turned

diameter 15 thousandths over actual finish ground
diameter.

Move carriage left and right to be sure tool will traverse the length of cut without obstruction when lathe
is running.
Be sure tool edge is free of work, then shift gears to
give proper speed of work (see "Cutting Speeds", page
47 and 48) and start lathe.
Start cut at tailstock end, wherever possible, as the
thrust of the cut is then taken by the thrust bearing in
the headstock instead of by the small center hole in the
work. If only one roughing cut is necessary, adjust tool
to turn piece 1/64" over finished size of piece.
NOTE: When adjusting tool to depth of cut always
move tool towards work so as to remove any backlash
present between cross feed screw and nut.
Many times it is not possible to remove all the excess
stock in one roughing cut. In this case take as many
roughing cuts as are necessary to bring work down to
finish turning size. Endeavor to split up roughing cuts
into equal depths of cuts and take each cut at the
maximum capacity of the tool and the machine.

38

FIG. 94 FILE FINISHING.

On work to be file finished and polished, leave 2 to 3

thousandths of an inch over finish size to provide stock
to file and remove slight tool marks and give polish
finish.
When finish turning several pieces to same diameter,
do not change cross-feed setting after once correctly
set. Turn diameter required length, stop feed, stop
lathe, back off tail center, remove work, return carriage
to starting position, insert new piece and turn as
before. This insures duplication of size.

The finish turned surface of steel is usually considerably smoother if cutting oil or soapy water is dropped
slowly over the work and tool point on this cut. If the
machine is not equipped with a coolant system, the
liquid may be dropped from an oil can, saturated
sponge or waste squeezed in the hand, or by a regular
drip spout connected to a can of solution and mounted
on the carriage so as to follow the tool.
When clamping any driving device to a finished surface, be sure to protect the surface by placing a copper
or brass sheet under the clamping screw.
TAPER TURNING AND BORING
There are three accepted methods of taper turning:
(1) the "set-over tailstock" method, (2) by means of a
taper attachment, and (3) the compound rest method.
These methods may be described as follows:
SET-OVER TAILSTOCK METHOD
The oldest and probably the most common method of
taper turning is the set-over tailstock method. The
tailstock is made in two pieces, the lower fitted to the
bed, while the upper part is fitted to a cross keyway
machined on the lower section. To turn straight diameters, the tailstock spindle is set exactly in line with
the headstock center, indicated by the zero mark on
the graduated boss on the rear of the tailstock. To turn
taper diameters the upper half of the tailstock is set
over the amount necessary to produce the taper
required.
To do this, loosen spindle clamp, unscrew handwheel
to remove center from work, loosen tailstock clamp,
adjust set-over screws to move tailstock top in proper
direction, reclamp tailstock clamps, readjust center,
reclamp spindle clamp and take cut and try taper.
When turning a number of tapered pieces by the
above method, it is essential that all pieces be the
same length within about 5 thousandths of an inch
and should be centered to the same depth. When using
the taper attachment, however, the length of the work
has no effect on the taper cut if the taper attachment
remains set at the same taper.
Tapers are usually given as the included angle in
degrees or as a certain taper per foot. For instance, a
taper of one-half inch per foot means that a bar one
foot long, having such a taper, would be one-half inch
smaller in diameter at the small end than at the large
end. However, to turn such a taper, it is only necessary
to offset the tailstock one-half the taper specified. In
this case, for a piece one foot long, one-half inch taper
per foot, set the tailstock over one-quarter of an inch.
If the piece were only six inches long, the tailstock
top offset necessary to secure one-half inch taper per
foot would be one-eighth of an inch.
From the foregoing examples it will be seen that the
setover necessary would be:
TxL
S= 2
2

where

S = setover in inches
T = taper per foot in inches
L = length of piece in inches

FIG. 95 TAPER TURNING: SET-OVER TAILSTOCK METHOD

Be sure to observe these important points when

taper turning with the set-over tailstock method:
Have tool edge set exactly on center of work.
Have ends of work faced off square with centers.
Do not adjust centers too tight as center point in
tailstock burns easily in this set-up.
TAPER ATTACHMENT METHOD OF TAPER TURNING
The most economical way to produce a number of
pieces of duplicate taper, especially where the length of
pieces varies, is by the use of the taper attachment. It
has been shown by the formula for the amount of
tailstock setover, that the setover varies as the length
of work, even when turning a taper of the same degree.
It can be seen therefore, that a taper attachment is almost indispensable for taper work. The advantage of a
taper attachment will readily be seen when it is necessary to change the taper attachment setup to
machine the tapers. For instance, it is only necessary
to turn the male taper, then change from the turning to
the boring tool in the tool post, and put on the chuck
or other accessory to hold the part in which the female
taper is to be reproduced. The point is that the sensitive part of the setup, the setting of the taper
attachment, has not been disturbed.
1. Clamp regular rough turning tool bit in tool holder
and set cutting edge exactly on center of work. This is
important, since if the tool was above or below center,
the angle of the cut would not be the same as the
setting of the taper attachment.

39

2. Mount work between centers in lathe as in straight

turning.
3. Move carriage so taper attachment shoe is in center
of swivel guide bar, as illustrated and described on
page 17, and tool is in center of work.
4. Any depth adjustment of tool is made by means of
compound rest top slide screw.
5. Run carriage toward tailstock until tool is about
1/2" to 1" past end of work. Next, run carriage back in
direction of cut by hand until tool is just clearing end
of work. Set tool for sufficient depth of cut to turn
taper about 1/3 of finished taper length. Try in taper
gauge. Turn down until taper centers about 1/3 of
length into taper gauge.
6. Take light skim cut over surface just turned, about
.005" depth to give smooth surface to test taper.
7. Test taper just turned in taper test sleeve or standard female taper gauge. Try to rock taper piece in taper
gauge. If taper is too steep, the piece, will be tight at
the big end of the gauge hole and will rock in the back.
If the taper is too slight the work will be tight at the
back of the hole and will rock at the big end of the
hole.

A cut of 8 thousandths will allow the gauge to go

approximately 3/8" farther on the work with either
Jarno or Morse taper and approximately 5/16" with a
Brown & Sharpe taper.
The turning cut must be as straight and smooth as
possible since the less filing and polishing necessary
the more accurate the taper job will be.
It is important that these points be checked when
taper turning with the taper attachment:
Have gibs in taper attachment adjusted to eliminate
unnecessary play in taper attachment slides.
Always run carriage past end of work when returning
tool and then come back in direction of cut by hand so
as to remove any backlash in slide and connecting
mechanism.
Have tool cutting edge exactly on center of work.
TAPER TURNING BY COMPOUND REST METHOD

8. Loosen clamp No. 4 (page 17), and adjust taper

attachment to correct error in taper of work. Tighten
clamp No. 4 and proceed to make another cut of just
sufficient depth to turn surface for trial. Take a second
skim cut to be sure surface tested is cut by taper
attachment without spring.
Test as above until nearly correct and then put chalk
lines on work length wise in four positions equally
spaced. Twist gauge on work and see whether chalk
marks are rubbed off evenly over entire length. If
marks are rubbed off more on small end of taper, set
taper attachment for more taper, and vice versa.
9. After work is proved to be of correct taper, rough
work down until tapered piece goes into gauge 3/4"
short of the finished length.
10. Put in finishing tool and take cut 8 thousandths
deep to leave taper stick out from gauge 3/8" after cut.
This 3/8" is left to provide grinding stock.
If turning and polishing to size take 8 thousandths
deep cut as before, use fine feed and check taper by
using Prussian Blue instead of chalk in rub test as
described in 8. If taper is correct, take cut of about 6
thousandths for finishing cut and try gauge. Gauge
should fit about 1/16" to 1/8" away from final position
before turning is completed. The last 1/16" or 1/8" is
left for filing and polishing which should be done
slowly and carefully to insure a good fit in the gauge.

FIG. 96 TAPER TURNING: COMPOUND REST METHOD

Set compound to desired taper by means of the

swivel slide graduations. Mount piece in chuck or on
centers and, with tool properly set, rough out piece and
check for correct taper. Make final adjustments to
correct taper while taking light finishing cuts.
SETTING LATHE
COMPOUND REST

While filing and polishing try work in gauge and use

rub test with Prussian Blue to insure proper taper and
fit.

40

TO

DUPLICATE

PIECE

WITH

(1) Mount sample between centers. (2) Mount test

indicator in tool post. (3) Swivel compound rest to

approximate angle and set indicator to contact on

center line of sample. (4) Run compound rest along
work and note error. (5) Reset compound rest to correct
error and repeat (4); continue until error is within limit
of accuracy desired. (6) Remove sample and insert
work piece. (7) Set cutting tool of proper shape so edge
is exactly on center line of work. (8) Turn, using
compound rest screw to obtain feed travel, until correct
size plus finish allowance. (9) Finish by grinding or
filing and polishing as in other work.

SETTING LATHE TO DUPLICATE TAPER PIECE WITH

TAPER ATTACHMENT
1. Clean centers of sample and mount in regular manner between centers.
2. Mount dial indicator in tool post so that actuating
contact is on line with centers of the lathe.
3. Move carriage so indicator is at about the center of
the sample and set taper attachment to bring shoe in
center of slide.
4. Adjust taper slide to approximately the estimated or
measured angle of sample, clamp the slide and the
shoe and try indicator on taper surface by moving carriage about an inch or so ... when error is in range of
full scale reading on indicator, move carriage until indicator is at one end ... set indicator at zero and run to
the other end of taper, noting error.
5. Loosen clamp and taper slide and move taper slide
until indicator moves back one-half previously noted
error. Repeat test over full length and again correct
taper attachment until error is small enough to be
within limits of accuracy desired.
6. Mount tool in tool post and proceed to rough and
finish work to same dimensions as sample.

stock is still in line with headstock, bring contact point

of indicator up to barrel of tailstock spindle which
should be extended about 2" for convenience.
With indicator set at zero in this position, set index
dial on cross feed screw at zero, and then move cross
slide away from tailstock spindle amount of off-set as
above computed.
Loosen tailstock clamp bolts and move tailstock top
slide toward indicator by means of setover screws until
indicator again reads zero. Re-clamp tailstock and proceed with turning work to same measurements as
sample.
If no indicator is available, mount a tool holder in the
tool post, wrong end to, and bring the blunt end up to
the tailstock spindle with a piece of tissue paper
between them. Make light contact until tissue paper
can be pulled between tool holder and tailstock spindle
with slight but perceptible tension.
Move cross slide away from tailstock spindle more
than, amount of setover as before, then return to
correct setting and bring tailstock spindle up to tool
holder by means of setover screws until tissue paper
has same feel as in last setting.
When setting cross slide to zero, be sure cross slide
is going toward center of lathe so pressure of contact
between tail stock spindle and tool holder backs up
against cross feed screw without slack
When moving cross slide out for setting, move more
than necessary and then return toward centerline for
proper setting so as to again keep pressure of test
solidly against cross feed screw.
When tailstock is properly offset, proceed as in regular taper turning, machining down to dimensions of
samples.
BORING TAPER HOLES

SETTING LATHE TO DUPLICATE TAPER PIECE WITH

SET-OVER TAILSTOCK METHOD
1. Measure large and small diameters of taper and
measure length of taper between points measured
along axis of work. Do not measure length along taper
surface as this length is longer than the axial length.
Taper per foot = difference in diameter at large and
small end in inches x 12, divided by length of taper in
inches.
2. The next step is to prepare the work on which taper
is to be turned. Center both ends and face ends square
and to correct length. Measure length accurately for
use in following formula to obtain setover.
Setover in inches=1/2 of required taper per ft. x length
in inches divided by 12.
3. To measure the setover of the tailstock two methods
may be used. Set indicator in tool post and while tail-

The procedure used in boring taper holes follows

closely the methods of straight hole boring. If a taper
attachment is used, the only variation is in actually
connecting the taper attachment to the cross slide and
setting the attachment for the proper taper. In setting
the taper attachment, the same precautions should be
taken as outlined in section devoted to external taper
turning.
Tools should be ground and set approximately the
same for boring as for turning, as described in the
section devoted to tools and tool setting, page 24.
The tool point should be set exactly on center, because if this setting is not made the taper hole produced will be incorrect.
If a taper attachment is not available, the taper may
be secured by swiveling the compound rest around to
the proper angle and feeding the tool by hand with the
compound rest top slide screw.

41

With this method of taper boring it is of course, impossible to use the automatic feed to tool. However, by
feeding slowly and uniformly by hand a creditable
finish will be secured.
Tapers of any angle may be bored with the use of the
compound rest and as long as the length of the cut is
less than the length of travel of compound rest slide,
there will be no difficulty. On surfaces larger than can
be made in one cut, two cuts may be made if care is
used in matching them up.
Taper parts like conical valve seats, dies with clearances, etc., are readily machined by means of this
arrangement.
In respects other than noted in the foregoing, the regular boring procedure given in preceding section
should be followed.
SHOULDER AND RADIUS FORMING
The corners in turned work are at various times
finished square, necked, either square or round, or
with a small radius. Or with square or radius tool at an
angle of 45 to allow clearance for grinding both
diameter and face.

straight diameter. The tool is then adjusted, as explained under straight turning, to secure the proper
finished diameter of work, power feed engaged and cut
taken to within about 1/64" of shoulder. At this point
disengage power feed and read cross dial -- feed corner
of tool into shoulder the approximate amount by hand
-- lock carriage clamp -- feed tool out by hand with
cross feed handle. Check length of shoulder, and if too
long run tool in to micrometer dial reading noted
above.
Loosen carriage clamp, advance tool to side into
shoulder for next cut -- reclamp carriage and feed
outward with hand cross feed. Repeat until
dimensional length of shoulder is obtained. The tool
used in the above is a side and front cutting corner
tool.
A quick method of squaring the corner is to rough to
within 1/64" as before. Finish turn to rough shoulder
with round nose turning tool. Put in front turning corner tool as illustrated. Run in until just barely skimming finish turned diameter. Note cross feed dial reading. Back away from work and move carriage so point
of tool is in proper position to cut shoulder the right
length. Lock carriage in this position and feed tool in
with slow hand feed until cross feed dial reading is
again reached. Release carriage clamp and feed
carriage to right by hand until cut of corner tool and
turned surface merge.
The side cutting corner tool fed outward produces
the smoothest finish, but is not as fast in removing
stock and finishing length to size as the front cutting
corner tool, which leaves a finish good enough for most
jobs.

The square corner is the simplest type and is used

where the piece is not subject to excess stress at the
corner section. The necked corner may be used where
grinding allowance is left in turning. The undercut
neck prevents undue wear on the corner of the
grinding wheel. This design is weaker than the square
corner due to the undercut.

When roughing and finishing a diameter which ends

against a round fillet corner, (B), it is advisable to
sharpen the tool bit to approximately the radius of the
fillet on the cutting edge. The final operation of forming
the fillet is then easily accomplished by using a tool
with radius ground to a fillet gauge corresponding to
the fillet to be produced.
With a tool set at a 45 angle, the undercut allows
clearance for the wheel in grinding the diameter and
the face of the larger diameter (C).

From the design standpoint, the rounded fillet corner

is the best due to its strength. It is more costly in
production, however, and so is used only in certain
classes of work (where vibration is present) to prevent
high stress concentration.
For square corner work, the tool is sharpened as
shown (A) and the corner roughed out to within about
1/64" or less before the final finishing cut is taken on the

42

The fillet forming tool is mounted in the tool post and

the tool fed in until a very light skim is taken off the
turned diameter. The tool is then fed by hand longitudinal feed till cutting a slight amount off face of
shoulder. The tool is next fed by hand after clamping
the carriage and the length of shoulder checked. If
shoulder is large, repeat above facing operation until
shoulder is reduced to correct length.

When forming a fillet in steel, it is advisable to lubricate the work with lard oil for a very smooth finish.
Proper height of tool edge varies from exactly on center
of work to as much as 1/8" above center on large work,
depending on job and material. This height is best
found by trial as no set rule governs every case.
When special forms or beads are required in turned
work it is usually advisable, not to say necessary, to
grind a tool to the proper shape and to form the work
by advancing tool straight in to work.

FIG. 101 FACE UNDERCUTTING.

3. Put dog on work, protecting surface under clamp

screw with small piece of copper or brass.
4. Place work on headstock center and run up tail center with right hand until tight. Loosen tail center slightly and start lathe, adjusting center to be just loose enough to allow dog to click in face plate but not loose
enough to rattle or for work to have end shake.

FIG. 100 FORMING END OF SHAFT.

In such straight forming the tool edge is set exactly

on center so as to produce the correct contour of the
finish formed surface. The tool should be ground and
stoned to a smooth finish as any marks in the tool will
be reproduced in the work.
A form tool for brass or cast iron should have a flat
top, while one for steel should have a slight lip around
the contour of the cutting edge to enable cutting and
prevent tearing the material. (fig. 100)
Form tools should be kept as narrow as possible,
since a wide form tool is much more prone to chatter
than a narrow one.

5. Shift gears in headstock to give about 1-1/2 times

the finish turning speed on surfaces to be filed for
average work. For hard materials, or for those such as
aluminum that will clog the file, reduce the speed to
half turning speed.
6. Select twelve-inch mill file and be sure handle is
properly driven on tang. If file is clean, it is ready for
use on brass, cast iron, etc., but for use on steel it
should be rubbed with chalk until evenly covered. (The
chalk prevents the steel filings clogging the teeth.)
7. BE SURE YOUR SHIRT SLEEVE IS ROLLED UP
ABOVE THE ELBOW OR JUMPER IS BUTTONED
TIGHTLY AROUND WRIST SO THAT NO LOOSE
EDGES FLY AROUND TO GET CAUGHT IN DOG OR
WORK.

FILING AND POLISHING IN THE LATHE

8. Start lathe and file work with slow even strokes,

lapping the strokes from side to side.

No matter how much care is used in turning, it is

usually impossible to secure a finish smooth and
polished enough to be used directly in service.

When filing, use a long slow forward stroke and press

firmly and evenly on the revolving piece being filed.
Relieve pressure on return stroke.

It is unquestionably better to grind the finished surface whenever possible but many times a grinding
machine is not available.

9. Stop lathe and try diameter with micrometers frequently until whole surface is filed as straight and
smooth as possible, and leave about 5 to 8 tenthousandth (.0005 to .0008) of an inch for polishing.

Under such circumstances work is usually filed to

size and polished. Procedure is as follows:
1. Clean centers and see that there are no burrs
around center holes.
2. Put center lubricant in tailstock center.

Use file card to keep file teeth clean. NOTE: A file

card is a short bristled wire brush which is brushed
along the valleys of teeth to remove clogging material. A
small metal pick is usually found in the handle. This
pick is used to remove chips of metal which are stuck
to teeth.

43

10. Polishing work.

NOTE: Polishing and filing heat the work. When

measuring diameter with micrometer, either cool work
by immersing in water or make allowance of one or two
ten-thousandths for cooling of work. It is recommended
that less experienced operators cool work to room
temperature before measuring.
CHASING THREADS
An important function of an engine lathe is to chase
threads. To cut a thread requires first, that the work
rotate; and, secondly, that the tool advance along the
axis of the work at a predetermined constant rate in
relation to the spindle rpm to cut the thread desired.

FIG. 102FOR FINE POLISH MOISTEN EMERY CLOTH WITH OIL

After filing is completed the finished surface should

be polished.
On work that is well balanced, set change levers to
give highest speed. On unbalanced work run at highest
possible speed without causing undue vibration.
On straight shafts, 1" or under in diameter, work
should be polished in speed lathe if possible.
Use strip of emery or carborundum paper of fine
grade and press against work, moving abrasive cloth
from side to side to cross lines and bring work to a
rough polish and to avoid cutting rings in work.
Use very fine abrasive cloth or a worn-out piece of
fine grade and use oil on work to bring to final polish.
Use crocus paper for very fine finish polishing.
If a piece of wood can be pivoted on the tool rest and
used to press abrasive cloth on work a quicker and
higher-lustred job is secured due to the higher pressure possible.
When polishing, check size and straightness frequently with mike to be sure dimensions are correct on
finished piece.
The best polishing requirements are:
High speed of work;
Fine grade abrasive cloth;
Use of oil on abrasive cloth (preferably lard oil);
Greatest possible pressure on work (a polishing lever
is recommended).

44

FIG. 103 CHASING THREADS.

Threads are commonly designated in the English

system by giving the number of complete revolutions of
the thread per inch length of the screw. If, for instance,
the chasing tool travels one inch along the screw while
it rotates twice, there will be two revolutions of thread
in one inch, commonly called two threads per inch.
The leadscrew on a lathe is rotated by means of a
gear train connection between the leadscrew and the
spindle. A nut mounted in the apron engages the
leadscrew to move the carriage. If, for instance, the
leadscrew is 6 threads per inch, then for each revolution of the leadscrew the carriage is moved 1/6" along
the bed. If the spindle and the leadscrew are geared so
that the spindle rotates once while the leadscrew
rotates once, the carriage will move 1/6" per revolution
of the spindle, and the thread cut will be 6 threads per
inch. If the leadscrew rotates twice as fast as the
spindle, three threads per inch will be cut. If, on the
other hand, the leadscrew rotates one-half as fast as
the spindle, the carriage will move 1/12" per revolution
of the spindle; thus twelve threads per inch will be cut.
It is thus seen that threads of any desirable pitch can
be cut, if an appropriate connection between the
spindle and the leadscrew is provided.

On standard change gear lathes, a quadrant and

loose change gears are provided to cut various threads,
and a chart placed on the gear cover indicates the
proper gears and positions to mount them to cut each
thread within the range of the gears.
On the quick feed change lathes, such as the Regal,
the change gears are mounted in a gear box, with a
gear train between the spindle and gear box, providing
the various ratios needed to cut different threads. The
changes are made merely by shifting levers on the box
and the headstock. An index plate on the quick change
box is plainly marked so that changes are quickly and
accurately made.
Several different thread forms are used in practice
and all may be cut in a lathe. Forms commonly used
include sharp vee, U.S.S., Acme, and 29-degree worm
thread, illustrated on preceding page.

FIG. 105 THREAD CHASING STOP

The setting of the change gears in the quick change

box is the same, regardless of the form of thread to be
cut. The only change is in the actual tool form used to
cut the thread.
Tools used to cut threads are flat on top with no back
rake. A slight lip may be ground in the side edges when
cutting steel, but for other materials the top is usually
absolutely flat. The front and side clearances on
threadcutting tools are very important. The side
clearances must be also adjusted for the helix angle of
the thread being cut. On threads 26 and finer, this
helix angle is negligible, but on coarse threads the
amount of the helix angle is quite appreciable and
must be taken in consideration when grinding
clearance for the lead on the side of the tool.
To measure the number of threads per inch a thread
gauge is generally used, and is merely a cluster of individual gauges, each one of which is cut with a thread
tooth on a thin section of strip steel; so the teeth of
only one gauge will properly mesh with the threads on
the screw tested. Each gauge is labeled with the pitch
of the teeth cut on it.
Another method is to lay a scale along the tops of the
threads parallel to the axis of the screw with the end of
the scale opposite the top point of a thread. Then, skipping the thread top directly below the end of the scale,
count the number of tops until one falls directly below
an inch mark on the scale. The number of thread tops

46

thus counted, divided by the number of inches, gives

the number of threads per inch. For example, suppose
there were 27 thread tops under two inches of the scale
(not counting the one under the end of the scale.) Then
27 divided by 2 = 13.5 threads per inch, or the thread
is 1/13.5 or .074 of an inch pitch.
When cutting threads, it is necessary to set the tool
at a right angle to the piece to be turned; that is, the
axis of the thread tool should be exactly 90 from the
axis of the work. This is easily done by use of a threadsetting gauge shown in figure 103, also 146 on page
32. Edges of the gauge are ground square with the
male and female angles ground on the ends and in the
sides.
Hold the gauge against the diameter of the work and
adjust the tool until it fits in the notch in its side accurately, thus insuring the proper setting of the tool
square with the work. Next, set the cutting edge of the
tool exactly on the dead center. The depth of the thread
and the thread angle will not be cut correctly if the tool
is set in any other position. When cutting threads on
cast-iron or brass, no cutting lubrication is necessary,
but on steel it should be used. A good quality of cutting
oil should be applied to the tool, especially on the
finish cuts; a smoother surface is thus obtained.
On threads of fine lead, about 30 and finer, the tool
may be fed straight into the work in successive cuts.
However, on coarser leads it is better to set the compound rest at one-half the included angle of the thread,
and feed in along the side of the thread, so that the tool
cuts on one side only during roughing (see page 44).
On the last two or three cuts the tool should be fed
straight in to remove all lines caused by feeding along
the side of the thread.
Since chasing requires a number of cuts and all
must be in the same line of the cut of the thread, it is
necessary either to keep the half-nut engaged on the
leadscrew at all times and return the carriage by
reversing the spindle rotation through the motor drive,
or to use an indicator which meshes with the
leadscrew and shows when the half-nut can be
engaged so that the tool will cut along the same thread.
The device used for this purpose is called a chasing
dial or thread indicator, and consists of a worm wheel
meshing with the leadscrew, and connected by a short
shaft to the indicating dial. The dial is calibrated with
four numbered lines and four others midway between
them as shown on page 17.
For even threads the half-nut may be closed when
the index mark is opposite any line of the dial; for odd
threads at any numbered line and for half threads at
any even numbered line. The advantage of the chasing
dial is that the tool may be drawn back and the halfnut disengaged at the end of the cut, thereby permitting the quick hand return of the carriage to the starting point. When ready for the next cut, set the tool to
the proper depth and engage the half-nut when the
proper line on the chasing dial is opposite the index
mark and take another cut across the thread.
The threading stop shown above may be used in several ways to aid the operator when cutting threads.
When the tool is set for the first chasing cut, set the
stop and clamp it to the carriage dovetail. Place the
stop screw through the clearance in the clamping piece

over dovetail slide and start the screw thread in the

cross slide. Move the cross slide until the underside of
the head of the screw is against the stop clamp and
take the cut. At the end of the cut the tool must be
backed off to clear the thread. This should be done
with the cross feed screw. For the next cut, move the
cross slide in to its previous position against the stop,
then use the compound rest screw to move the tool in
to the desired depth of cut. For the last few cuts, the
stop screw should be run out (when the compound is
set on an angle) and, reading the cross feed dial, the
tool fed straight in to clean up both sides of the thread.
Another use of the chasing stop is to leave it set for
the depth of the finished thread. Then on the
succeeding pieces each successive cut can be fed in by
the cross feed screw until the chasing stop prevents
further motion. The screw will then be the same size as
the previous screws turned with this setting.
The points just outlined are also true for taper and
internal threading.
We would again point out that the top edge of the
tool should always be set on the lathe center line and
the proper side and front clearance must be allowed to
clear the sides of the threads.
The following table conveys some idea of the number
of cuts necessary to chase vee threads in common use:
THREAD CUTTING DATA
No. of Threads
Per Inch

No. of Chasing
Cuts

8
10
11
12
13
16
20

18
14
13
11
10
9
8

This table is based

on. 005" per cut allowing an extra cut
for finish which is
the actual practice
in our shop.

KNURLING
Many pieces used for handles or control knobs require a rough but finished appearing surface so that a
good grip may be obtained without impairing the
appearance of the part. This effect is obtained by
raising the surface of the piece in symmetrical or cross
lines and is called knurling. Knurling is a form of
pressure indentation by a continuous process. The tool
employed, as illustrated, consists of small rolls
containing serrations in their periphery which squeeze
the metal in the work piece to form a reproduction of
the knurling tool. When using a knurling tool a slow
speed is required. Adjust the tool to mark the work
lightly. After it is seen that the tool is working properly,
increase the pressure on the rolls by means of the
cross feed screw, liberally oil the surface to be knurled,
engage the power feed, allowing the tool to move across
the work until the leading edge of the roll is just flush
with the other end of the work. Reverse the feed,
increase the pressure on the rolls slightly and feed
back to the starting position. Repeat this procedure
until the indentation is deep enough to suit the
purpose for which the part is to be used. To produce
the desired result a few trails on a sample piece will
show the amount of pressure necessary.
CUTTING SPEEDS
For efficient operation of a lathe, the proper surface
speed of work being machined must be maintained. If
the speed is too slow, the job takes longer than necessary, and often the work produced is unsatisfactory.
On the other hand, if the speed is too great, the tool
edge will be worn down too rapidly, and frequent
grinding will be necessary, which is also wasteful. For
ordinary production work the speed should be as great
as the tool will stand without requiring sharpening
more often than every two to three hours when cutting
continuously.
APPROXIMATE CUTTING SPEEDS
FOR HIGH SPEED STEEL
TURNING AND BORING

Material
Cast iron
Mild Machine Steel
Alloy Steel*
Bronze
Brass
Aluminum

Roughing
Cutting Speed
Feet per
Minute
60
80
50
100
200
250

Finishing
Cutting Speed
Feet per
Minute
120
150
90
150
300
400

Chasing
Cutting Speed
Feet per
Minute
50
60
40
70
80
90

*Data for average alloy steel annealed.

When chasing threads on small diameters the limitation will be the ability of the operator to handle the
lathe, rather than the cutting limit of the tool. We have
found that 200 rpm is practically the limit at which
threads can be chased. The table above gives the approximate speeds which can be maintained with
various materials for rough and finish cuts. The
surface speed is found by multiplying the length of the
periphery in feet by the revolutions per minute of the
work. Thus the cutting speed for a 4" diameter rotating
at 60 rpm, will be 4 x 3.1416 x 60 divided by 12 or
62.83 feet per minute.
FIG. 106 KNURLING

The cutting speeds possible are greatly affected by the

use or absence of a suitable cutting fluid. Thus steel,
which can be rough turned dry at 60' per minute, can be

47

rough turned at about 80' o r 90' per minute when flooded

with good cutting lubricant.
When roughing p a r t s down to size, use the greatest
depth of cut and feed p e r revolution that the work, the
machine, and the tool will stand a t the highest p r a c t icable speed. On many pieces where tool failure i s the
limiting factor in the size of roughing cut, it i s usually
possible to reduce the speed slightly and increase the
feed to a point where the metal removed is much greater
with longer tool life. F o r example: Where the depth
of cut i s 1/4", the feed 10 thousandths of an inch per
revolution and the speed 80 feet per minute. If the tool
will not permit additional feed at this speed, it i s usually
p s s i b l e to drop the speed to 60' per minute and increase
the feed to about 1 5 to 20 thousandths of an inch p e r
revolution without having tool trouble.
In this case, the speed is reduced 25% but the feed
i n c r e a s e d 100%, so that the actual time required to
complete the work i s less.

and i s about the most elusive thing to find in the entire

field of machine work. As a general rule, strengthening
the various parts of the tool support train will help, also
supporting the work by a steady o r follow rest.
The fault may be also in the machine adjustments.
Gibs may be too loose; bearings may, after a long p e r iod of heavy service be worn; or the tool may be sharpened improperly. If the machine is in perfect condition, the fault may be in the tool o r tool setup. Grind
the tool with a point o r a s n e a r a point a s the finish
specified will permit; avoid a rounded leading edge on
the tool. Reduce the overhang of the tool a s much a s
possible and be s u r e that a l l the gib and bearing adjustments a r e properly made. See that the work r e ceives proper support for the cut, and, above all, do
not t r y to turn a t a surface speed that i s too high Exc e s s speed i s probably the greatest cause of chatter,
and the f i r s t thing an operator should do when chatter
occurs i s to reduce speed.

On large thin sections such a s cups o r brake drums,

On the finish turning operation, a v e r y light cut is

takeh since most of the stock has been removed on the
roughing cut. Due to requirements of the finish a fine
feed can usually be used and still make it possible to
run at a high surface speed. A 50% increase in speed
over the roughing speed i s commonly used. In p a r t icular cases the finishing speed may be twice the roughing speed. In any event, to secure the maximum speed
in this operation, the work should be run a s fast a s the
tool will reasonably stand up without excessive regrinding. A sharp tool should be used when finish turning.
The tool should be resharpened to a keen edge if the
same tool i s used for roughing and finishing.

a coiled spring stretched around the piece may dampen

the vibration sufficiently to prevent chatter. Often, pack-

CUTTING WITH CARBIDE TOOLS

Where holes a r e to be finished to an exact size o r

to a maximum straightness, it i s advisable to leave
the hole a few ten thousandths under size and remove
this metal by lapping.

Modern production turning has been speeded up many

times by the use of sintered carbide cutting tools. This
has been possible because of the extreme hardness and
resistance to wear of carbides, even at high temperatures.
There a r e dozens of types of carbide cutting tools,
mariufactured by s e v e r a l companies. Each company
issues catalogs describing these tools and making recommendations a s to cutting speeds and feeds t o use and
which carbide grade to use on different materials and
types of cutting.
Because of the wide variety of carbide grades, of materials and of cutting conditions under which they may
be used, it i s difficult t o make definite recommendations as to cutting speeds. However, generally speaking, cutting speeds of 200 surface feet p e r minute and
up should be used. Some cut-and-try experiments will
be necessary to see which carbide grade works best on
the material to be cut. Highest possible cutting speeds
should be used up to the point where tools break down
too rapidly.
CHATTER
Briefly, chatter is vibration in either the tool o r the
work, producing a finished work surface that h a s a
grooved o r lined finish instead of the smooth surface
that i s to be expected. The vibration i s s e t up by a
weakness in the work, work support, tool o r tool support,

ing the inside with a wood disc cut to fit the cup will per mit a smooth finish to be obtained on the outside surface.
LAPPING

Lapping can be employed on both flat and cylindrical

surfaces.
The procedure to be followed varies slightly, depending upon the reason for lapping; whether it i s to finish
a hole to an exact straight size, polish the surface for
high finish, o r merely to remove a bit of material from
hardened metal.
When the requirement is to slightly enlarge a hole,
a piece of carborundum cloth wrapped around a rotating rod held in the lathe chuck will provide the quicke s t but not the most accurate way.
Laps a r e made in both the solid and the expanding
types. The expanding type is p r e f e r r e d to the solid
type because it can be expanded, trued up, and recharged when the cutting surface of the lap i s worn down.
A lap may be charged with cutting grit so that it will cut
in one spot only.
It i s not advisable to crowd a lap, since the process
i s only used a s a finishing operation and not to remove
a large amount of stock.
The maximum stock allowance for lapping should not
exceed one to two thousandths of an inch and i s preferably about t h r e e to five ten- thousandths of an inch.

A good serviceable lap fo r general use i s illustrated

on this page. The construction of such a lap i s simple.
Turn the cast- iron piece all over to rough size -- turn
handle end t o size -- turn lap surface t o standard size
minus one thousandth of an inch o r two thousandth if
the holes you lap a r e apt to come that small. With work
turning at a slow spindle speed, turn slight line in lap
surface at very coarse lead about one inch per revolution. This feed can be done by hand a s there i s nothing
particular about it. Make two such cuts, one right-hand
t
The purpose of these grooves
lead, the other left hand.
i s simply to act a s grit and oil distributor troughs. They
should be about 1/64" to 1/32" wide and 1/64'' t o 1/32"
deep, depending on diameter of the lap. Cut with a sharp
vee tool.
The lap s u r f a c e i s next split with a milling cutter
within about 1/4" to 3/8" f r o m the end of the lap a s
shown above. It i s then d r i l l e d and tapped a t right
angles t o the s p l i t f o r the expansion s c r e w s . This
split through lap p e r m i t s expansion by means of s e t
s c r e w s in one half acting on o t h e r half through the
slot a s shown.
The best g r i t s to employ a r e Arkansas Grit, of the
correct grain for the work to be lapped, and Bon Ami
cleaning powder. T h e s e g r i t s a r e not a s f a s t cutting
a s some but produce good accurate work with a high
finish. The g r i t used i s mixed with machine oil to a
light paste consistency and applied to the lap evenly.
The lap i s then pushed into the hole with a combination push and twist going in and pull and twist in opposite direction coming out. The lap i s rotated slightly in the hole after every complete stroke to avoid l a p ping too much in a position which might keep the hole
from being lapped cylindrically.
Sufficient take-up should always be given to the adjusting s c r e w t o insure lap fitting the hole snugly. If
this i s not done the hole may be lapped bell mouthed.
The above-mentioned g r i t s and procedure m a y be
used when lapping holes in steel, either hard o r soft,
cast iron and bronze, and a r e advantageous in that the
work i s not charged with the cutting g r i t a s may occur
when emery o r carborundum i s employed.

On some v e r y hard m a t e r i a l s the lap may be made

of copper and diamond g r i t employed. In t h i s c a s e ,
however, the g r i t paste i s rolled into the s u r f a c e of
the l a p with a r o l l e r o r by rotating the lap on a flat
plate smeared with the grit paste a s one handles a rolling pin. The e x c e s s loose g r i t i s then washed off the
lap with gasoline o r turpentine and regular lapping procedure followed. The amount of cutting done and finish
left a r e dependent on the size g r i t used and we would
suggest looking up this subject in any good toolmaker's
book which will give complete information on diamond
lapping.
Lead laps a r e used for rough lapping where the main
consideration i s to remove material without extreme r e quirements a s to hole accuracy o r bell mouth.
A flat lapping disc i s also useful on a lathe.
The rough finish type i s merely a plate with a taper
shank which f i t s in the headstock spindle on the face of
which a disc of e m e r y cloth is attached with beeswax.
A fine type of lap consists of the same type of plate
provided with a lead or copper face which can be charged
with suitable abrasive grit. Flat valve seats and other
parts of this nature a r e thus easily provided with a proper flat surface of high finish.
It should be remembered that lapping i s a sensitive
and essentially slow operation. Lapping i s not primarily
a metal removing but a finishing o r polishing operation.
All work should be finished a s smooth a s possible with
the cutting tool o r in the grinding operation so the lapping operation will have a s little metal a s possible to
remove.
Use a s little lapping compound a s possible since a
thin layer will cut according to the pressure o r contact
of lap while a thick layer may cut even over a low spot
in the hole.
METRIC AND ODD THREADS
Metric threads can be cut through the quick change
g e a r box by the addition of compound g e a r s between
the drive gear on the head and the gear on the feed box.

TABLES SECTION
TABLE O F DECIMAL EQUIVALENTS
1/64" to 1" in 64 ths

Decimal
Equivalent

Fraction

0.015
0.031
0.046
0.062
0.078
0.093
0.109
0.125
0.140
0.156
0.171
0.187
0.203
0.218
0.234
0.250
0.265
0.281
0.296
0.312
0.328

Fraction

625
25
875
5
125
75
375

Decimal
Equivalent

Fraction

0.671
0.687
0.703
0.718
0.734
0.750
0.765
0.781
0.796
0.812
0.828
0.843
0.859
0.875
0.890
0.906
0.921
0.937
0.953
0.968
0.984

11/32
2 3/64
3 /8
25/64
13/32
27/64
7/16
29/64
15/32
31/64
1/2
33/64
17/32
35/64
9/16
37/64
19/32
39/64
5/8
41/64
21/32

625
25
875
5
125
75
375
625
25
875
5
125

Decimal
Equivalent
875
5
125
75
375
625
25
875
5
125
75
375
625
25
875
5
125
75
375

Millimeters Into Inches

-

Millimeters

Millimeters

Inches

Millimeters

Inches

1 0 Millimeters = 1 Centimeter
1 0 Centimeters = 1 Decimeter
1 0 Decimeters = 1 Meter

1 Centimeter =
.3937 inch
1 Decimeter = 3.937 inches
1 meter
= 39.37 inches

1 Kilometer

1 Mile
1 Yard
1 Foot
1 Foot

1 Meter
1 Centimeter
1 Millimeter

=
=
=

.6214 mile
39.37 inches
3.2808 feet
1.0936 yard
.3937 inch
.03937 inch

1 Inch
1 Inch

Inche E

1.609kilometers
.9144 meter
=
.3048meter
= 304.8 millimeters
=
2.54 centimeters
= 25.4 millimeters
=
=

REPAIR PARTS LIST

When ordering repair parts, the following information should be furnished us for best
service:
1. The name of the part, the number of the part, and the number of the page on which
it appears in this book.
2. Size of the lathe and its serial number.
For example, suppose you need an oil reservoir cover for your 19" Regal. To order
this, you would write us for "one oil reservoir cover, part No. 71, pages 62-63 of
Running a Regal Manual, 14th edition, for 19" Regal serial No. E-1001".
With this information we can send you the right oil reservoir cover immediately.
Without it, there is needless delay while we write you for this information.
The serial number will be found stamped either on the front shear of the bed at the
tailstock end, or on the cross girth at the same end of the machine.
In the Repair Parts Section the 13" Regal is taken as the basic machine in working
up the lists. Therefore, some minor parts on Regals of other sizes will not be identical
with the illustrations. For instance, the headstock cover, part No. 1 on page 58 has a
different shape on the 21" and 24" Regals, and parts 3 to 10 are not included on these
same two machines. Also, where two or more screws or washers are required, only one
is illustrated.
However, if you will give us all the information requested in 1 and 2 above, we will
know exactly what part you require and can ship it to you without delay.

55

3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.

2.

1.

No.

63

Cap (specify quadrant or

feed rod end of box)
Cap hex screw (specify
long or short)
Intermediate shaft plug
Intermediate shaft felt plug
Intermediate shaft bearing
Intermediate shaft
Intermediate shaft key
Intermediate shaft cotter key
Intermediate shaft second gear
Intermediate shaft large gear
Cone shaft plug
Cone shaft felt plug
Cone shaft bearing
Cone shaft 12-tooth gear
Cone shaft 13-tooth gear
Cone shaft 14-tooth gear
Cone shaft 16-tooth gear
Cone shaft 18-tooth gear
Cone shaft 20-tooth gear
Cone shaft 22-tooth gear
Cone shaft 23-tooth gear
Cone shaft
Cone shaft key
Set screw
Adjusting nut
Bearing
Clutch gear
Clutch gear bush
Double compound gear
Compound gear pinion
Straight pin
Feed shaft

Name

57.
58.
59.
60.
61.
62.
63.
64.
65.

33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
53.
54.
55.
56.

No.
Taper pin
Feed shaft collar
Bearing outer race
One unit
Bearing inner race
Small drive shaft bush
Bearing outer race
One unit
Bearing inner race
Hard collar
Straight pin
Yoke drive pinion shaft
Taper pin
Quick change box
Key
Collar
Bearing inner race
One unit
Bearing outer race
Drive shaft large bush
Feed gear
Feed gear collar
Feed gear washer
Hex nut
Draw pin nut
Draw pin
Box-to-bed screws (specify
long or short)
Felt pad
Yoke stud plug
Bearing
Yoke gear shaft
Yoke gear
Yoke gear pin
Straight pin
Yoke pinion bush
Yoke drive pinion

Name
Straight pin
Cylinder yoke
Oil reservoir cover
cotter key
Oil reservoir cover
washer
Oil reservoir cover
spring
Oil reservoir cover
Shifter shoe
Shifter shoe pin
Shifter link pin
Shifter link
Shifter handle
Index handle plunger
Index handle spring
Index handle plug
Index handle pin
Index handle
Index handle
taper pin

Name

90.
91.
92.
93.
94.
95.

(specify whether
for shifter
handle 76 or
for cylinder
yoke 67)

Feed shaft collar

Taper pin
Bearing outer race
Bearing inner race
Hard collar
Feed shaft

One unit

All units above except parts 32-36

inclusive and plus the following:

21"-24" REGALS ONLY:

71.
72.
73.
74.
75.
76.
77.
78.
79.
80.
81.
82.

70.

69.

66.
67.
68.

No

13

12

11

10

No

75

Safety clutch cup

Safety clutch spring
Leadscrew quick change box bush
Allen screw
Cotter key
Castle nut
Small thrust collar
Large thrust collar
Slip gear
Slip gear key
Leadscrew
Straight pin
Oiler screw

15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26

Back box screw

Slip gear cover

Slip gear screw

Feed rod collar

Taper pin

Safety ,clutch (feed box half)

Taper pin

Feed rod

Taper pin

Safety clutch (feed rod half)

Safety clutch ball

Name

14

No

Back box for standard machine

Name

LEADSCREW AND FEED ROD

Taper pin
Cotter key

53

Head end control handle

Apron bracket pin

Apron bracket collar

Set screw

Taper pin

Apron bracket

Oil hole screw

Apron bracket mounting screw

Apron control handle

Control rod

Taper pin

Control rod collar

Name

52

51

50

49

48

47

46

45

44

43

42

41

40

No

Rack guide
Front bracket mounting screw
Front bracket
Back box for apron spindle control
Apron control handle stop pin
Detent spring
Detent ball
Taper pin
Control rod arm

59
60
61
62
63
64
65
66
67

see 13"-15"
parts

Rack

Drum switch pinion

Set screw

Clevis pin

Name

58

57

56

54

No

APRON SPINDLE CONTROL ROD