lathe file rest

[dwhite]

Does anyone know how to make a lathe file rest or where to get one super cheap?  I was thinking of cutting down a graver sharpener jig, the kind with the roller, and affixing aluminum bar stock of the correct diameter to make one.  I picked aluminum because the jig is aluminum.  What do you think?  I have two lathes and the tool rest holders take 6mm on one and 7mm on the other and haven't been able to find a rest with the correct post diameter.  Thanks in advance!  Dan.

[oldhippy]

A search on google for lathe file rest will point you to a few suggestions.

[dwhite]

I've been searching for a while but haven't found anything that doesn't require a milling machine and a machinists lathe.  I have access to neither.

[oldhippy]

 

If you don’t have a lathe, why do you want a file rest? You should go to a machinist shop and buy one readymade. Here is a photo of a simple rest it might give you a pit of help on what you can design using simple tools. If you want to practise filing, correctly get hold of some scrap metal and a bench vice and file and practise on that. There is a right way and many wrong ways when it comes to filing flat.

[rodabod]

This one looks decent:

http://www.model-engineer.co.uk/forums/postings.asp?th=78631

That just requires rod, a section of gauge plate, screws, delrin, and a tap and die set.

You could make the retaining rod the same diameter as our tail stock (eg. 8mm) to fit in there, and then replace the delrin tubes according to what height you want to work to.

 

 

 

[jdm]

2 hours ago, oldhippy said:

If you don’t have a lathe, why do you want a file rest?

 

21 hours ago, dwhite said:

I have two lathes and the tool rest holders take 6mm on one and 7mm on the other and haven't been able to find a rest with the correct post diameter.

 

[dwhite]

oldhippie and rodabod, both of those designs look great.  I'll have to search for some suitable rollers, not sure where you could find something like that but I haven't started looking yet.  I could easily build that out of brass and silver solder it together.  A jewelers saw ought to cut the frame.  Thanks jdm for the reminder that I have two lathes.

[rodabod]

I ended up getting a double-roller model made in the USA. I have to say, it is excellent. And so is the lantern tool post they make. Very good prices and build quality.

http://www.watchtoolsonline.com/Lathe-Attachments_c10.htm

 

[dwhite]

I did the same.  I did not see a lantern tool post on their page.  And where in the world did you get that chuck?  I would love to have one like it.  Dan

[rodabod]

The lantern tool post is here:

http://www.watchtoolsonline.com/Lantern-Tool-Post-for-Cross-Slide-8671.htm

It’s excellent so far, and seemed like a good price. I bought the larger one and turned it down to fit the 11.5mm slot on my Wolf Jahn cross slide. 

[rodabod]

Oh, and the 3-jaw chuck is a Burnerd made in England. It’s really beautiful. It was a standard accessory with my Pultra. Can mount bezels, crystals, and just about anything in it. 

[measuretwice]

another Pultra owner!  A fantastic little lathe. 

[dwhite]

Is there anything special about Pultra collets?  I'm trying to get some 10mm collets and I see some on ebay labeled Pultra.  I have no idea if they are compatible with Levin 10mm lathes and drawbars.

 

[measuretwice]

They're both 10mm as you know.  The threads are the same pitch/form/OD, but not the same length along the body (pultra is longer).  Pultra (mostly) does fit Levin.  Levin doesn't fit Pultra - the longer thread section I suspect would be an issue but the slot for the pin is wider on the Pultra collet so the Levin collect couldn't inserted.  The Pultra collet is slight proud of the spindle nose when installed in the Levin - the large diameter is a little more than the Levin (meaning it fits but sticks out slightly, why I said mostly).  The tapers visually look the same but before buying I'd try and find some documentation confirming the angle.   Hope that helps

Edited March 3, 2018 by measuretwice

[dwhite]

Thanks!

[rodabod]

I think the Pultra collets were made by Conflex. As far as the 8mm ones are concerned, I found they are compatible with Wolf Jahn, Lorch and what I generally refer to as WW collets (although I guess that American collets probably vary amongst brands). 

[jriser]

Here is the file rest that I made for a special job.  I was going to make the rollers from O-1 and harden them but decided to go with standard bronze flange bearings.  These are readily replaceable if i ever wear them down.

Jim