[Newbie] T-slot Bolts For Kurt 675

Be very careful with t-nuts that don't fit the slots. It is possible to pull them through the table. Hopefully the t-nut will fail before the table. I have some special t-nuts that have 3/8 holes, but the t-nuts fit the t-slots properly. Making t-nuts that fit your t-slots is a good project for your mill. I make them in a 6 inch or so long bar then just cut them apart. I just use mild steel.

McMaster also sells t-nuts in a number of different sizes. http://www.mcmaster.com/#machine-table-t-slot-nuts/=wzgxxl
 
You DO NEED to get the correct size clamping set indeed! Save the 3/8" set if you acquire a smaller mill down the road,because the smaller sets do cost a lot more. My Harrison is not a particularly small mill,but it does use the smaller set.
 
Actually the slots in my table are 1/2 inch, and the T slot nuts with the 3/8 studs are 1/2". Don't know why the 3/8" set was with this machine-- it jut came with it--- Maybe I'll drill out the 3/8 holes in the T nuts to 1/2" and get some 1/2 inch studs and nuts--maybe grade 8.

Careful on your t-slot measurement. T-nut are slightly under size so they will fit. My Bridgeport clone has 5/8" slots but a 5/8" stud will not work. That is why a 5/8" t-nut set comes with 1/2" studs (I believe). My Index mill has 1/2" slots and uses 3/8" studs.
 
T NUTS CAN TIGHTEN UP BETWEEN THE NUT AND THE BOTTOM OF THE GROOVE PUSHING THE BED UP AND BREAK OUT TOO...
 
TOOLMASTER said:
T NUTS CAN TIGHTEN UP BETWEEN THE NUT AND THE BOTTOM OF THE GROOVE PUSHING THE BED UP AND BREAK OUT TOO...
Click to expand...

I use a center punch to peen over the bottom thread on Tee nuts that I make, stops the thread coming out the bottom.

Stuart
 
I use T-nuts that are tapped through. They are a bit more versatile but you do have to be very aware of bolt length and not allow the bolt or stud to bottom out in the T-slot. I use socket head cap screws and hex bolts in the T-nuts much more than I use the clamp studs. I use socket head cap screws to secure my vice, they are the correct length and I keep them screwed into the tapped holes in the back of the moveable jaw when not in use. I also have a couple dozen T-nuts, I find that having more than the 6 that come with most clamp kits is very handy. McMaster sells them, and they are also easy to make if you are so inclined.
 
Just came across this thread...great discussion...thanks to all
 
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