Tailstock Screw Becoming Nasty

[T Bredehoft]

I have a Clausing 3950, branded ATLAS lathe, its a 6 by 24. It is very nearly new, not used before I got it. When I got it the screw to advance the tailstock moved smoothly. I've been using it off and on for a couple of months now, and the screw is progressively getting stiffer, not consistent, but twice every rev it tightens up then releases, it goes steady by jerks, and the jerks are getting worse.

I've had it apart, don't see any problems except I can't run a tap in it, left hand don't you know.

I'm open for suggestions, comments, anything that you think might help.

 

[pineyfolks]

Did you check the key area?

 

[RJSakowski]

I know this is an obvious question, but have you checked the tailstock lock? Other things that come to mind are lubrication and the possibility of expanding the diameter of the ram by virtue of pushing too hard on the taper. I have seen my 6" Sears/Atlas tighten up when drilling large diameter holes because of the cutting pressures. If it has been a gradual tightening, lubrication would be my first choice.

 

[T Bredehoft]

I'll disassemble it again, check the key area and lubricate it. Thanks for the suggestions.

 

[T Bredehoft]

I've got it apart, it wasn't dry, but not well lubed, either, no interference, with the possible exception of the woodruf key under the handle rubbing on the face of the collar. I've shortened the key and am putting a flat washer between the face and the handle, all well lubed with white lithium grease. Interrupted by the Titanic Dinner on the tube.

Later: Its back together, well lubed, It took three or four times running the quill in and out before all the rub was gone, but it's running smooth now. I'll keep track to see if the problem reoccurs.

Thanks for suggesting normal maintenance.

 

[wa5cab]

Actually, the proper lubricant is SAE 20 non-detergent oil. Usually found today ID'd as ISO 68. The oil will run out and has to be replaced about each day that you use the lathe. But the grease will dry out and block getting new lubricant from onto the surfaces.

 

[markba633csi]

I have a Clausing 3950, branded ATLAS lathe, its a 6 by 24. It is very nearly new, not used before I got it. When I got it the screw to advance the tailstock moved smoothly. I've been using it off and on for a couple of months now, and the screw is progressively getting stiffer, not consistent, but twice every rev it tightens up then releases, it goes steady by jerks, and the jerks are getting worse.

I've had it apart, don't see any problems except I can't run a tap in it, left hand don't you know.

I'm open for suggestions, comments, anything that you think might help.

I had a similar problem with my MK2 and used chainsaw bar oil on it, running it in and out many times seems to have cured the stiffness.
Mark S.

 

[Inflight]

Be sure your handle is running true and not bent in any way.