Lathe Turret Tool Posts vs. QCTP

[kd4gij]

I use both. Shimming tools is really no big deal once you do it a couple of times. The 4 way is quicker to change the feed angle of tools

 

[Bob Korves]

OK guys, I have to be an outlier here.

First I have QCTP, 4-way and Armstrong (rocker) tool posts for my lathe. I use them all, but for different purposes.

The most used toolpost on my lathe is the 4 way, and this is why:

First I NEVER shim a tool in the toolpost. All the tools for it are carbide insert types. Each is milled and/or ground to exactly .606 in height which always centers my tool. I have all the insert holders, so they can be installed in no time at all. (right cut, left cut, parting, boring)

I also have qctp tools in duplicate, as in cutting in brass or aluminum, it is slightly better to adjust the height +/- to reduce chatter. I do more of my parting on my QCTP than ever before, but everything chatters on my smaller lathe. I hope the new one is more rigid.

For cutting wood, nothing is better than an Armstrong with a HSS cutter it it. For tricky cutting around corners and trepanning, I also use the Armstrong.

Your method make sense, Dabbler. As I said above, I saved my 4 way in case I every have production work, but as a hobbyist I never do. It stays in the dark. I have been looking for an inexpensive lantern tool post and holders for years, never see a decent one with all the pieces of the correct size at the right price or I would snap it up. They are good at times for tight places and for "impossible" cuts. I have the QCTP off at the moment for grinding the center from a live center with my Dumore 44-011 tool post grinder. I use it every few months, and it is useful, but it sure takes time to get it set up, get me back up to speed, mount and dress the wheel, and then do the work in a few minutes, and start tearing it down, cleaning the lathe just to make sure (I protect it well while grinding), and putting it all away properly. A three minute grind can take most of the day sometimes.

 

[Dabbler]

I would love to have a TPG, but the cheapest used ones up here go for $1200 to $2000 - new ones are only 30% more.

 

[WCraig]

Thanks again ....just the kind of information I am looking for.

Do standard toolholders for QCTP's go on sale...say during Boxing Week?

I'd like to pick up a few more at a decent price.

Craig

 

[Bob Korves]

I would love to have a TPG, but the cheapest used ones up here go for $1200 to $2000 - new ones are only 30% more.

You have to be in the right place at the right time, like all used tool purchases. I bought my Millrite mill in unused new condition, my Dumore 44-011 TP grinder set in slightly used condition, complete in the box and with additional wheels, a new set of 7 tapered lathe mandrels, and a few more things, all for $1600 US, including delivery of the Millrite to my shop. Full disclosure, it was from a friend, a GOOD friend...

I do not think TP grinders are worth the kind of money you stated. Hold out and do without.

 

[Headrc]

Got the Mutlifix clone tool post today ....still thinking on this. Another question has surfaced ...what is the largest size tool that the Chinese AXA Aloris clone tool holders accommodate?

 

[Dabbler]

5/8 in the XL variety

 

[Jubil]

It is fairly quick to change tools in and out of the holders for a QCTP. 2 or 3 hold down screws, then quickly set the tool height, it can be done in a couple minutes after some practice. Just have enough holders for the go to tools you use all the time, and a few extras for the job at hand. I have 13 holders for my QCTP, and it is really overkill for a home shop that does not try to make flat rate. Things take as long as they take...

I agree. Setting tool height is very quick, especially if you have some sort of gauge to set with.

 

[Jubil]

I would love to have a TPG, but the cheapest used ones up here go for $1200 to $2000 - new ones are only 30% more.

From what I read in your posts, you already have the know how, so why not build one?
I have never even seen a toolpost grinder in person, only pics on CL. But from the looks it shouldn't be extremely hard to do.
I cobbled one together from some stuff I had around the shop. No, it's not as accurate as a store bought one and I intend to improve on it in time but it was totally FREE. (I love that word)

 

[Dabbler]

I guess I could - it could be #xxxx on my to-do list... I could get around to it in about 20 or so years!

Seriously, I would like a Dunmore or eqivalent, as they are very high quality and make a nice finish.