Atlas follower rest?

[VTdave]

This nice follower rest came with my 10" Atlas lathe but I can't figure out how to attach it. I might be missing some parts, or perhaps it might not be for this machine. Ideas? Thanks.

 

[Lastwagen]

The following rest slides onto the saddle, opposite where your cutting tool meets the work piece you’re turning. On smaller diameter work, the following rest is there to oppose the tool pressure and keep the work piece from flexing away from the cutter which is forcing into the work piece. Without the following rest, the tool will gradually cut a taper, increasing the further away from the chuck you cut.


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[Lastwagen]

That is a following rest for an Atlas/ Craftsman lathe, looks just like the one I found yesterday, except mine is in need of a lot of TLC. I also found a milling attachment too. It’s complete except for the removable jaws, and it is in similar shape; rusted and frozen. As often is the case, the PO had passed years ago and there was no one to take care of the old man’s tools. Some estate sales are better but you pay a premium price; I’m more of frugal guy that enjoys restoration work, taking on the rust.


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[VTdave]

Ah . . . missed that entirely. Once I took the cover off the back end of the saddle it became clear right off. Thanks.

 

[Lastwagen]

Clean up has begun...


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[mickri]

When you use the follower rest it needs to be lined up as close as possible with the tool bit. Like this.



Not like this. Even this small amount of offset will cause you to cut a taper.