Inexpensive 6" 3-jaw Chuck Revisited

Regarding moving heavy chucks. I wore my lower back out, there is no fixing it according to the docs, I have been told to be careful lifting weights and spent 3 years in physical therapy. I recently bought a new lathe and now have 6 jaw 8" set tru, very heavy, a 9" 3 jaw and 10" 4 jaw. I found that having a shelf right next to tailstock end of lathe at a right angle with shelf at same height as lathe bed allows me to pick up a chuck using my legs with arms locked in tight to my sides and elbows bent. I then penguin step to left a few times and put chuck down on 4 x 4 sled and slide her home. I can do this on all but my worst days. Those 4 x 4 sleds are the ticket for sure. I also have some home made wood wedges to tilt the chuck just a bit if needed to get the 6 pins of the D1-6 chuck to slide home.

If I had been more careful about lifting moves like this 30 and 40 years ago I would not be in this mess. Careful lifting of chucks , vises, rotary tables, dividing heads can make your future years a lot happier.

I hope this helps someone make more sensible choices when moving the awkward heavy stuff.

cheers
michael
 
I hear you Michael.
I did some stupid stuff like that when in my youth and am starting to feel it now.
I used to pick up V8 engine blocks and carry them across the shop to work on them instead of using the hydraulic lifts. I was always in a hurry back then. Now if I try to lift something of any weight I can feel it in my lower back and knees.
My mind says " I can do that" but the body is telling me "you better not or you're gonna pay for it later".
Now days, I listen to the body more. :D
 
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