Filthy Beast.

[FOMOGO]

Looks good Ed. I think all that grease and muck was probably a blessing in disguise. Much better than rust and corrosion, and/or badly worn components. To much oil is almost always better than not enough. Mike

 

[rowbare]

There are products called "barrier cream" that you can put on your hands before working with messy stuff, that form a barrier to protect your skin.

When I used them - oh, 30-40 years ago - there was one kind to protect against water-based soils, and one for non-aqueous soils. The first kind had to wear off; the second kind -- the kind you'd use for grease etc. -- would act as a release agent so when you washed your hands, the muck would (nearly) all slide right off.

Invisible Gloves is a good brand. I had used it in the distant past as well but couldn't seem to find it in local retailers anymore. Then I found that Aircraft Spruce carries it so I ordered several cans at a time to average out the shipping. I use it pretty much every time I go in the shop. http://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/cmpages/handinvisible.php?clickkey=138577

bob

 

[DoogieB]

If you had to use a steam genny to clean the lathe, I think it would be a good idea to pull the spindle and re-wick. Who knows what's in the oil cavities now.

 

[Eddyde]

If you had to use a steam genny to clean the lathe, I think it would be a good idea to pull the spindle and re-wick. Who knows what's in the oil cavities now.

I was very careful not to direct the steam or compressed air into critical areas like the spindle bearings, oil cups, etc. However, I will probably remove the spindle and change the wicks soon. I do want to put it to the test to see how accurate it is and what may need work.