Cutting, facing and finishing brass tubes and stainless steel rods for clock arbors

[MSBriggs]

A Sherline lathe would work well for parts of this size. Probably a bit easier to use than a mini lathe and perhaps cheaper. Definitely take less space if that is a consideration. Otherwise make jigs, as already suggested. Perhaps block of wood with a hole to guide the rod, then file along the end of the block to dress the end of the rod. Slot through one side of the block to the hole, and you can apply a clamp to the block to clamp the rod.

 

[mikey]

Notch, I'm with the other guys who recommended you buy a small lathe. If you do, @MSBriggs has the right of it - a Sherline lathe is perfect for this scale of work. You can have the parts machined by others or even make do with a drill press and lots of work but if you plan to stay in your clock working hobby then a lathe will be invaluable. The time it would take to make all the parts in your initial post would be measured in minutes.

A lathe opens the door to many, many possibilities - you should really consider it.

 

[Notch]

Awesome guys - awesome

I’ll let you know how I go today!

No, I’m not going out to buy a lathe ... yet ...


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[Shootymacshootface]

To make the most perfect holes in your clock parts drill slightly undersized and then finish with the proper reamer. You won't believe how nice the holes will come out. This works for wood also.

 

[Notch]

Thanks for all the advice guys!

Today was a hoot. I got my process down!

Nb distortion from shooting through the loupe.

Tubes done inside and out.

I’ll write up some of the lessons tomorrow.

Sufficient to say I want a lathe!


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[royesses]

Nice work Notch. You are a skilled craftsman.

Roy

 

[Eddyde]

Wow the parts look great! Nice job!

 

[David S]

Nice going Notch. Keep that up and you won't need a lathe .

David

 

[pacifica]

Or you could use ball bearings, many sizes are available for not much money.

There are a number of wood clock designs that use metal arbors set in ball bearings.