Sherline Tailstock Locking Screw Grommet....???

[Crow Horse]

I'm bringing my newly acquired older 4000 up to speed. It was missing the tailstock locking screw & grommet. What exactly is the function of the grommet (#40860)? It seems like it impairs the locking screw from actually locking down.

 

[EricB]

You don't always need to fully tighten the screw. Often you will want to take up the play but still be able to extend the tail stock ram, like when center drilling a part. The grommet provides a bit of friction to hold the screw where you set it. Kind of odd but it works.

Eric