I've reviewed a lot of info on lathe alignment to the point where I'm confused.
Leveling has been debunked somewhat as navy lathes are bolted right to deck plates. The geometry is what I understand is most important. Chucking a two collar test bar with about 9 inch extension and making light cuts on the collars should indicate if the ways have a twist.
That seems pretty straight forward but my lathe has an adjustable head stock as well. Seems if you cut a test bar and get a taper, you could also compensate with the headstock adjustment? That might simply mask a ways twist issue.
My question is where to begin. Checking head stock alignment or ways twist?
I dont have a machinist level but saw a video clip where someone jst fabricated a large plumb bob device to check level.
Any insight on this topic would sure be appreciated.
Leveling has been debunked somewhat as navy lathes are bolted right to deck plates. The geometry is what I understand is most important. Chucking a two collar test bar with about 9 inch extension and making light cuts on the collars should indicate if the ways have a twist.
That seems pretty straight forward but my lathe has an adjustable head stock as well. Seems if you cut a test bar and get a taper, you could also compensate with the headstock adjustment? That might simply mask a ways twist issue.
My question is where to begin. Checking head stock alignment or ways twist?
I dont have a machinist level but saw a video clip where someone jst fabricated a large plumb bob device to check level.
Any insight on this topic would sure be appreciated.