rotating a QCTP

[unterhausen]

I am finding that I am rotating my toolpost a lot between tools. I saw the DTM toolposts have a nut with a handle built in, which seems like it would be really nice. Anyone ever put something like that on their QCTP? I am tired of having a wrench sitting on the lathe for only that purpose.

(on edit: I don't know where I saw that picture of a DTM toolpost with two handles on it, but it looks like someone may have added that)

 

[cmacclel]

The only time you typically need to rotate the toolpost is when your cutting a taper using the compound slide. All your cutting tools should be setup with the QCTP indicated in to the spindle.

Mac

 

[saltytri]

That was me:

http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?p=3144729#post3144729

 

[precisionworks]

All your cutting tools should be setup with the QCTP indicated in to the spindle.

+1

Parallel to the bed, or 90 degrees to the chuck, is the most used position. Mine is swiveled around to some pretty odd angles to get into some unusual places, but that is maybe 5% of the work on the lathe. The other 95% sees the QCTP parallel to the bed.

 

[unterhausen]

as I accumulate more toolsholders, it will be less common I guess.

 

[saltytri]

+1

Parallel to the bed, or 90 degrees to the chuck, is the most used position. Mine is swiveled around to some pretty odd angles to get into some unusual places, but that is maybe 5% of the work on the lathe. The other 95% sees the QCTP parallel to the bed.

Agreed most heartily. But I still don't like having to have a wrench handy. This little mod was worth the trouble, not to mention good training for a learner.

 

[darkzero]

I am finding that I am rotating my toolpost a lot between tools. I saw the DTM toolposts have a nut with a handle built in, which seems like it would be really nice. Anyone ever put something like that on their QCTP? I am tired of having a wrench sitting on the lathe for only that purpose.

(on edit: I don't know where I saw that picture of a DTM toolpost with two handles on it, but it looks like someone may have added that)

Well David already posted but the DTM does not come with a handle for the top nut. Great idea and convienent but it could possibly get in the way when using the QCTP at odd angles. Probably not likely but when it does it could be a pain. I've ran into similar situations like this with just the locking handle getting in the way on the machines in shop class but that was mainly due to the limitations on available tooling.

 

[precisionworks]

Great idea and convienent but it could possibly get in the way when using the QCTP at odd angles.

My thoughts too. A 6 point socket stays mounted to a ratchet handle and hangs on the pegboard just behind the lathe. It takes (maybe) fifteen seconds to loosen, adjust, tighten & hang the ratchet handle back on the board.