Model Engine Maker

Supporting => My Workshop => Topic started by: Mcgyver on October 24, 2017, 08:26:46 PM

Title: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Mcgyver on October 24, 2017, 08:26:46 PM
Mcgyver shop tour

So here’s the result of 25 years of being a toolaholic.  I’ve two shops, a two car garage and the basement.  The basement started when the eldest son seemed pretty firmly entrenched with a career in Calgary.   On hearing he got a permanent position with a big law firm, I acted.  With strike force shock and awe I moved tools into his vacated basement bedroom before anyone knew what happened.  The key to domestic shop sprawl is this:  remember, it’s easier to beg forgiveness than ask permission.

I’ve put a bunch in the furnace room as well, hey, what else are you going to do with it? 

Last year I re-plumbed and wired for the laundry room to move from the basement to the 2nd floor when I redid the kitchen (all by yours truly)….it creates new basement ground to conquer.  There is already a lathe in storage there, and when the better half hasn’t been looking, I’ve opened the windows and mig welded (true confessions, I counting on a near zero chance of her reading this)

 I’m almost embarrassed (and pleased) and how much stuff I’ve accumulated.  The truth is I don’t have a dollar into it.  Patience and buying and selling has been how I’ve afforded it. 

This is just the basement; the big stuff is all in the garage and to follow


Furnace room, bead blaster, oven, vacuum caster, hardware store drill press (just to save running to the garage), vulcanizer and scroll saw.  No shown is lots of storage and a large Hermes motorized engraver

(https://i.imgur.com/O1iboH1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ZKUfk0S.jpg)

Entering the main shop, there’s this alley with three alleyway offshoots to the right

(https://i.imgur.com/9bQH1aA.jpg)

At the end of the lane is a bench and some storage.  On the rack is a Unimat 3 with homemade drive, a Schaublin I haven’t decided what to do with, a jeweler’s steamer, polisher and misc. stuff.

I like microscopes so there’s a few.  This is a favorite; it’s a Nikon Labphot EPI style which means the light comes through the objective vs from the bottom of a biological scope.  It’s designed for looking at opaque items – perfect for the shop.  It’s also trinocular so I can put a camera on it.

(https://i.imgur.com/3tpsxXN.jpg)

In the other direction is electronics.  I'm closer to electronics beginner than wiz, but if I'm to mess about with it, its more fun with all the gear.  I’ve got this nice Meiji stereo zoom scope that swings to where keyboard would normally be.  This is the sliver removal station.  Tongue in check, yes, but there is no better way to get at a sliver

(https://i.imgur.com/EUwYIMV.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/vmBqwOH.jpg)

I also like the old wood tool boxes so have picked up a few up over the years

(https://i.imgur.com/eFyDBiR.jpg)

This is a  nice little Schaublin 70.  I was making 7 BA countersink screws with it last week.  Took some time getting the tooling set, but when it is, what a blast.  Under bench drive is two stage and of my design.  Next to it is a Hardinge bench mill that did the slotting (seen a few photos above)

(https://i.imgur.com/Z2moW91.jpg)

Another side alley – a lot of watch stuff.    A good part of the “library” is under bench is full on both sides

(https://i.imgur.com/m3Iy2yU.jpg)

Here’s a ultrasonic cleaner, L&R watch cleaner, magnetic polisher and wild stereo zoom.  Its not as fancy as the other zoom scope, but its right opposite the watch bench so is very handy. 

(https://i.imgur.com/2gFQTQW.jpg)

Here’s one you don’t see everyday, at least at home - its a microtome.   It’s for cutting specimens into extremely thin slices for slide preparation.   For $25 including the B&L stereo zoom, I couldn’t say no!

(https://i.imgur.com/xGb5M85.jpg)

Here’s the watch bench.  The watchmakers tool collection is very complete, a lot the larger items like staking tools, jeweling tools and presses etc on the shelf over the watch cleaning stuff.

(https://i.imgur.com/qT3uUIL.jpg)

Electronic parts.  These shelves on casters are great, small parts bins are both sides, and they spin around easily for access

(https://i.imgur.com/mcw6XH3.jpg)

On the other side of the cleaners are some nice pieces – at Mitutoyo tool makers microscope and a servo drill press.  The microscope has large barrels graduated in tenths and the eyepiece has a graticule making it easy to measure accurately, really handy for watch parts

(https://i.imgur.com/IBRWZE5.jpg)

Next to the Schuablin, I’ve got this project – a Holbrook B8 I’m reconditioning.  Bed is scraped, about to start on the headstock and tail stock.  I’ve decided to hard chrome and grind the quill to fit a freshly honed tailstock bore….but there is a slight delay as I have to make stand for the hone before that can done.  It is a truly remarkable lathe, I can’t wait to get it running!

(https://i.imgur.com/LxTkagE.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/l2Ro5td.jpg)

Here’s a another beast of a scope, a research grade Nikon Apophote trinocular with all the bells and whistles.  It needed a bunch of  work, most of which is done.  I still have to finish the variable power supply for the 10A 10V lamp….(no home guy imo should be running mercury vapor lamps, too dangerous and too expensive so I replaced it) but its a thing of beauty (imo)

(https://i.imgur.com/1LemMbp.jpg)

The last little section….BCA, Pultra, watchmakers lathes balances and Levin radius lathe (on the floor)

(https://i.imgur.com/lEpp0Jt.jpg)

The BCA is seeing lots of work.   A new DC motor and the spindle has been replaced with this T slot block that a new ER spindle will bolt to  I’ve already milled oil slots in the ways and added zerk fittings. 

(https://i.imgur.com/csiYUpd.jpg)

I use the Pultra a lot, it’s an amazing lathe and I’m fortunate enough to have a fairly complete set of accessories.  Next to the Pultra is a multifix motor.  When I want to use a watchmakers lathe, I just park it in front of the multifix.  There's a stereo zoom over top, but I confess it sees little use -

(https://i.imgur.com/dquprOD.jpg)

On the top shelf are two watchmakers lathes, a Rivett and Boley Leinen.  Both have complete sets of collets, bezel checks, slide rests etc, and I also have the Hardinge pivot polisher which is set up on the nearer of them.  Oh, there is a Hermes diamond point engraver as well.

(https://i.imgur.com/KvPgZtK.jpg)

Last but not least is a Rivett 608.  This is from late 19th century, actually stamped #1.   I guess technically it’s a Faneuil Watch company lathe (before the name change).  Its as I bought it and subsequent got the B8.  They are so similar in size and function I don’t really need it, but its such thing of beauty I haven’t  got around to selling it.

(https://i.imgur.com/1upKgN8.jpg)

That’s the basement….the bigger stuff is in the garage....to be continued when I get to photographing it :)

Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: simplyloco on October 24, 2017, 08:46:45 PM
Amazing! I look forward to seeing some of your output! :cheers:
John
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Kim on October 24, 2017, 08:53:18 PM
Wow!  That's a lot of tools packed in there!  And an amazing number of microscopes for sure!
Nice collection you have. Can't wait to meet the rest of your tools  :popcorn:
Kim
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: crueby on October 24, 2017, 09:14:33 PM
Wow!

I think we should all just meet at your house, brainstorm a project or twelve, and build them!
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Mcgyver on October 24, 2017, 09:29:11 PM
thanks guys.  Output has been more tools tooling and machine tool reconditioning than model engines....I'm cognizant that the hobby has largely been building the shop.  I just get captivated by building the capability and capacity and a lot of these old machines have a great deal of appeal to me.  I've also done a lot of articles for home shop machinist which takes a lot of time.  Here's a link to where I drop photos of stuff I've made  https://imgur.com/a/LNfpI

Wow!

I think we should all just meet at your house, brainstorm a project or twelve, and build them!

lol, thats the problem.  Every day I spend in the shop I create 12 more days of work.

you're not that far and my business is in Welland (awful bloody commute for me).  Do get in touch if you are up this way.

Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: b.lindsey on October 24, 2017, 09:33:49 PM
Not to speed up your demise at all McGyver, but if the saying that he who dies with the most toys wins, I think you are headed for the GRAND PRIZE!!   :lolb:

Bill
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: pgp001 on October 24, 2017, 10:04:43 PM
Hang on a bit.............He hasn't shown us the rest of his stash yet.

I always thought I had an excessive tool collection, (I know this to be true because my wife keeps telling me) now having seen that little selection mine is just normal

I have to say you "have it bad" don't you !!
You have a similar taste in tooling to myself by the looks of it, I also have a fully tooled up Pultra 1770 and agree it is a super lathe to use, mine has all the capstan gear as well as being on the makers Mardrive cabinet stand. I also have a little Boley watch lathe for the smaller jobs. I am guessing you also have an Atlas 7" shaping machine like mine too.
I am now eagerly awaiting for the next installment of photo's, and I am hoping you don't have a Mikron 112 gear hobbing machine, at least I might have one tool that you don't have  ;D

Phil
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Mcgyver on October 24, 2017, 10:29:44 PM

I am hoping you don't have a Mikron 112 gear hobbing machine, at least I might have one tool that you don't have  ;D

Phil

you got me there!  Guess I'll have to add it to the list.  I'd also like an F1 and a small myford cylindrical grinder, but would have to leave TO....I cannot fit another thing in here.   I did have a 7B, photo of it below, just before I sold it.  The two of us would just barely fit in the two car garage so sadly something had to go. 

(https://i.imgur.com/mrXeRWI.jpg)
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: steamer on October 25, 2017, 02:30:47 AM
Saweeeeet!
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Art K on October 25, 2017, 03:53:14 AM
Phil,
I'm sure there must be an AA program for tool-O-haulics. Run to it don't walk. :ROFL: :lolb:
Art
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Jo on October 25, 2017, 08:19:35 AM
 :naughty: Many desirable goodies

Jo
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: jadge on October 25, 2017, 10:35:12 AM
Good grief, that's one hell of a collection.  :o

The only area where I could compete is that I do have a Myford cylindrical grinder.

Andrew
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: steamer on October 25, 2017, 11:36:40 AM
Phil,
I'm sure there must be an AA program for tool-O-haulics. Run to it don't walk. :ROFL: :lolb:
Art

Yes, and when you have an address, feel free to publish it here!....

Dave

Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Mcgyver on December 17, 2019, 02:55:37 PM
The year in review.

Its that time of year when normal folks reflect on major world events and stories....or maybe send out a note and a pic on what the kids are up to.  Well afflicted, I reflect on major machine and tool acquisitions and horse trades.  This is mostly smaller basement stuff;  I still haven't taken you out for the garage tour. 

There's some really unique items that popped up that I feel fortunate to now be the be custodian of.  I think I'm done buying machines.  I did recently acquire castings for a number of engines (Allchin, Evening Star and Tuetonic class compound) and have major beam, a giant corliss, a seal and jacobs gear hobber aging on the shelf (as well as a Stuart triple to finish) so getting these new castings is I hope a harbinger of a shift from building capabilities to building models.  2020 is the year to finish all the machines and get to model engineering projects....but there's a lot of outstanding machine projects!  Two precision spindles, two lathe recondtionings, a soft bearing dynamic balancer, and so on.

First item is a pivot polisher by Hauser, used for burnishing clock and watch pivots.  So beautifully made and Mr Smithee helped me acquire a nice set of carbide jacots for it.  It'll have a low duty cycle, but anything Hauser catches my attention....no machine is finer made than they are, imo.

(https://i.imgur.com/7e2VrKz.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/CjF5IRM.jpg?1)

Next up, scored this great little Boley WW83, full set of accessories including the vertical slide/spindle and fairly rare threading attachment with all gears and two slide rests.  It even has a tumbler!.  Bearings seemed dicey and the OEM's were deep groove.  I replaced them with P4 AC's and ground spacers etc - this is a preferred mod many do to these lathes. I replace the motor and countershaft bearings as well.  Other than that, everything was in good shape and works, it just need repainting which took some time.  Its got the 127 gear so is good for inch and metric, one the photos shows chasing a slightly damaged 40 tpi thread

(https://i.imgur.com/0svdTkn.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/ItiPfDT.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/smimKTX.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/1kxOnDj.jpg)

One of the most interesting machines to follow me hope was  this baby Jones Shipman cylindrical grinder -  a 520 I think.  Apparently it came out of a Mercer plant.  I didn't know such a thing existed, then saw it, and of course then couldn't live without it.  It comes external and internal spindles and work holding is via a 8mm collet.  To give a sense of size, there's a shot of it sitting on my horizontal mill table

(https://i.imgur.com/7yPMSxo.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/qrdBKAR.jpg)

I also couldn't help myself on this nice little Levin 10mm with about all the accessories.  Overall its beauty, but need a wee bit sprucing up.  Headstock is apart, awaiting P4 bearings, and the drilling tail stock spindle also needed a rebuild.  the motor and wiring were pooched.  I ended up using a 3P motor and VFD (buried in, and using the controls on, the original box).  Its ok, but VFD's are a lousy way to control speed, not as good as the OEM DC.  The best might a Consew servo - it monitors speed and puts more current through so you get great torque at low speed.  I might change it out and use the 3P for the grinder

(https://i.imgur.com/QOBv6Aq.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/YrvN5LJ.jpg)

I just got through cleaning up the drilling attachment which is an interesting bit.  The graduate wheel at the end turns a screw that hits a stop.  When pecking, you come back into the hole until the stop, then turn the dial how much you to advance before the next peck cycle.  This is super handy with very small drills as you don't waste time and risk breaking the drill (which could be down to a couple of thou) looking for the bottom of the just pecked hole.  The spindle is also adjustable in two plane so you can perfectly centre it.

(https://i.imgur.com/gWUH7t5.jpg)







Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Mcgyver on December 17, 2019, 03:17:23 PM
To complete the tour, I realized some 2018 additions were missing.....so here's an extension to the home shop machinists Christmas card lol

I added a second Schuablin 70.  This one has the dividing and milling attachment with an Isoma scope - nice!  Ones sort of left as a capstan, and the other for general stuff.

(https://i.imgur.com/0WDwI4V.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/eDyWhHI.jpg)

A little Aciera F1 also made it in.  Currently making a new spindle for it.  As nice as these are , the spindle design is, well, imo rather poor - the housing and shaft make up the spindle's needle bearing inner and outer race.  I could not come up with a way of fixing the spindle bearing wear, so am making a new spindle using the lowest profile AC series.  Not very photogenic at the moment, in pieces....and there's' a shot of the new spindle shaft (drilling that one was a challenge!)

(https://i.imgur.com/k0JZZPw.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/Av9NeiT.jpg)




Also added was the great little Hauser jig borer.  Condition was great, but the paint was falling off (I think I posted this already, but it deserves mention on the 'tour')

(https://i.imgur.com/uvxKHfs.jpg)



Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: steamer on December 17, 2019, 04:16:04 PM
I'm calling in a Seal team to make off with that little Jones and Shipman!..... :ThumbsUp: :ThumbsUp: :ThumbsUp: :ThumbsUp: :ThumbsUp: :cartwheel: :cheers:
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Mcgyver on December 17, 2019, 07:56:27 PM
I'm calling in a Seal team to make off with that little Jones and Shipman!..... :ThumbsUp: :ThumbsUp: :ThumbsUp: :ThumbsUp: :ThumbsUp: :cartwheel: :cheers:

lol, different eh?  I had never seen one before.  It comes with quite an elaborate overhead drive that is on a shelf at the moment...pending my ministrations.  I have to admit, not by intent, but workshop building has evolved as the hobby, but I'm going to break free and make more models soon:)
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: propforward on December 17, 2019, 08:05:31 PM
I love everything about this thread. I thoroughly enjoy the toolaholic sentiment, and these are such very fine and beautiful tools, in wonderful condition. Not only that - but the pictures are just filled with atmosphere. Each picture shows the tool in "just the right" surroundings. I can picture myself in the shop enjoying a chat about all things model engineering. Very nice - that is a fine collection - good for you!
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: steamer on December 17, 2019, 08:09:02 PM
I'm calling in a Seal team to make off with that little Jones and Shipman!..... :ThumbsUp: :ThumbsUp: :ThumbsUp: :ThumbsUp: :ThumbsUp: :cartwheel: :cheers:

lol, different eh?  I had never seen one before.  It comes with quite an elaborate overhead drive that is on a shelf at the moment...pending my ministrations.  I have to admit, not by intent, but workshop building has evolved as the hobby, but I'm going to break free and make more models soon:)

Let me know how you make out with the F1.   I have one as well, and looking at the drawings ....that spindle doesn't look easy to rebuild...confirmed by your statements....If I was to have to do that I would make a drilling quil head with a new 90 degree mount and make it bigger!.....Probably go ER collets too.     For now I just oil it... ALOT!

Dave
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Mcgyver on December 17, 2019, 08:37:41 PM
Let me know how you make out with the F1.   I have one as well, and looking at the drawings ....that spindle doesn't look easy to rebuild...confirmed by your statements....If I was to have to do that I would make a drilling quil head with a new 90 degree mount and make it bigger!.....Probably go ER collets too.     For now I just oil it... ALOT!

its a big job and there is no easy way out, at least none that occurred to me.  Everything has to fit in such a small space.  To me, it was important to retain the original functionality - i.e. the 40mm OD for vertical and horizontal use in the machine.  Its darn near impossible to fit a W12 collet spindle with AC's and keep it under 40mm let alone anything bigger.  Spindle shaft and housing were ground and lapped and are within 2 microns using in indicator mic; I figured if making a spindle for an Aciera, I had better achieve their level of accuracy.....no point in all that work if its a downgrade!  The current delay is that I need to finish the soft bearing dynamic balancer (my design, so its working is far from a sure thing!) to get smoother operation out of my ID grinder before doing the housing ID.....then it should come together quickly. 

This spindle and the ER for the BCA will likely be done as articles in HSM.  I thought to offer the spindles for sale that were a plug and play into the original machine.   I'd get the parts made by people equipped to machine to tenths without having to hold your tongue just so, cnc grinding and such.  Then I'd do the assembly and grind of the collet taper.  They'd be expensive but these mills are highly prized as you know,  but without a new spindle option you can be stuck in a dead end alley.  And mine has replaceable AC's!

Thanks Stuart!  Come by for that chat anytime you like
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: propforward on December 17, 2019, 09:02:05 PM

Thanks Stuart!  Come by for that chat anytime you like

That would be great, truthfully. Mostly I like to just listen to people who actually know what they are talking about, and take it all in.  ^-^
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Twizseven on December 18, 2019, 08:19:45 AM
A fantastic collection and plenty for you to work on.  I have the precurser to the F1, aF12 but need to locate the arm to make it into a vertical rather than just the horizontal mill it is at the present.

Colin
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Flyboy Jim on December 18, 2019, 03:55:25 PM
I have to admit, not by intent, but workshop building has evolved as the hobby, but I'm going to break free and make more models soon:)

I can see how that can happen. What a wonderful collection of machinery...................most of which I don't have the slightest idea of what it does.  :shrug:

Jim
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: bent on December 18, 2019, 05:18:10 PM
Wow.  Just...wow.  One thing I've never owned, but have always wanted (all the times I whisht I had one for troubleshooting) is an o-scope.  And you have what looks to be a dozen or so...
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Mcgyver on December 18, 2019, 09:35:33 PM
There's probably 4 oscilloscopes there.  Two need a bit of work, one of two 465B's are what I mostly use.  why 2?  they seem to come way so darn cheaply I like the idea of having a spare.  For the $100 I'd get for it, having a spare of one of the nicest but aging scopes ever is (for me) worth it.    Its not as hoarding-like is it probably comes across, I sell lots too.  I've built the shop up a lot by buying in bulk and selling most duplicates.

Scopes, new offshore or old quality standbys are fairly inexpensive now, you should get one.  I'm toward the beginner side on electronics but like learning and I can't image trying to learn without a scope to see whats happening.  I'm at the point where I've had a bunch wins fixing stuff, and some of my circuits work, but I've a lot to learn.  Of the things I've undertaken, electronics has been the most difficult to learn on my own.
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Flyboy Jim on December 19, 2019, 02:50:50 AM
There's probably 4 oscilloscopes there.  Two need a bit of work, one of two 465B's are what I mostly use.  why 2?  they seem to come way so darn cheaply I like the idea of having a spare.  For the $100 I'd get for it, having a spare of one of the nicest but aging scopes ever is (for me) worth it.    Its not as hoarding-like is it probably comes across, I sell lots too.  I've built the shop up a lot by buying in bulk and selling most duplicates.

Scopes, new offshore or old quality standbys are fairly inexpensive now, you should get one.  I'm toward the beginner side on electronics but like learning and I can't image trying to learn without a scope to see whats happening.  I'm at the point where I've had a bunch wins fixing stuff, and some of my circuits work, but I've a lot to learn.  Of the things I've undertaken, electronics has been the most difficult to learn on my own.

My first job, after graduating from the Oregon Institute of Technology in 1966, was working for Tektronix in Beaverton, Oregon. My job was to test and calibrate new oscilloscopes. I did that for 6 years and then bought a 37' commercial salmon troller and went fishing in the Pacific Ocean off the coasts of Oregon, Washington , and Northern California. I've always regretted not studying mechanical engineering technology instead of electronics. I turns out I was way more adapted to that.

Jim
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: RonGinger on December 19, 2019, 03:57:25 AM
My first job out of Cass  Technical High School in Detroit, while attending Wayne State University was in an electro-mechanical unit of Holley Carburetor company. I remember one of our technicians telling me when he got to depressed by the junk we were building he would open the side of one of our big 5" Tektronix  scopes and just look at it for a few minutes to see what real quality was. I learned a lot working there and gained a great respect for Tektronix. I still have one of the 'portable' scopes I bought in surplus in one of my cabinets. I cant bring myself to get rid of it, even though I have an imported storage scope that is much more useful.

I also still have my Heathkit OS-3 scope which I got for my 12th birthday. Its on a shelf in the garage, totally useless, but I will never take it to the dump- one of my kids  can do that when they clean up after I'm gone.
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: bent on December 19, 2019, 03:51:40 PM
I've gotten by over the years making do without a scope...but there are times when having something to measure fast transients is very helpful.  I once blew the window glass out of a fume hood in the rocket shop's chem lab, measuring ignition delays with a thermocouple hooked to a scope.  Was not allowed back into the lab for several weeks.  Mercury compounds are very reactive.
:slap:
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Alex on December 20, 2019, 04:05:47 PM
"I did recently acquire castings for a number of engines (Allchin, Evening Star and Tuetonic class compound) and have major beam, a giant corliss, a seal and jacobs gear hobber aging on the shelf (as well as a Stuart triple to finish)"

I saw those on Kijiji; I think you'd do a great job if you put your mind to it. 3-1/2" gauge is not that popular (at least in Eastern Ontario), but at the Montreal Live Steamers it's having a big resurgence.   I build in 3-1/2 because I like building, and the resulting models are not too large.

Hope to see one of these well on the way at the end of 2020. ;-)
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Mcgyver on December 21, 2019, 02:17:47 AM
Thanks for the encouragement Alex.  I don't see myself riding them, just want to build them, steam it up a few times and loo at it occaisonally.... so the lack of a track doesn't really concern me, although maybe when its made I'll feel differently. 

I'm trying to finish a Stuart triple,better get it done before starting another so as part of that have started on Ian Hunt's tube bender.  I made what I thought was a fairly fancy tube bender years ago, but I just can't the radius as tight and well formed as Ian's rig does with its bullet mandrel.  Once again down the rabbit hole of tool making.
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Lauri on June 22, 2020, 05:54:27 PM
Hello.

You have some really nice stuff over there.
Can you say something about the quality of the Levin Lathe? I've never seen one but I'm very familiar with Schaublin 70 lathes. How would they compare? Are Levins still being made?

Lauri
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Dan Rowe on June 22, 2020, 09:19:14 PM
Lauri, Levin is still in business.
https://levinlathe.com/

I have a very similar Levin only with a 3C headstock. It is a very nice lathe but Levin lathes are only 50mm. I have never had the chance to use a Schaublin lathe but I am interested in the comparison and how does the Levin compare to the Pultra lathe.

Cheers Dan


Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Mcgyver on June 22, 2020, 09:53:33 PM
Thanks Lauri.  They are both fantastic machines.  The Levin was the last one I picked up so haven't used it much as I'm just finishing reworking some of it.  The motor and controller were toast which is unfortunate as it was a nice DC unit.  I replace it with 3/4 hp 3p motor and VFD buried in the original control box.  I also replaced the spindle bearings with new matched P4's.  Final thing is to make the overhead drive for the mill and drill accessories. 

One of the small challenges with the Levin is that all the early round head stock models (and I believe some of the early square head ones, I have serial # cut off somewhere) use a now unavailable new departure shouldered angular contact bearing.  You can get around it, but it adds to the work of swapping bearings.   The vendor did not disclose the bearing issue, but I had my indicator with me - an interesting negotiation ensued that ended up with me coming home with the Levin, Huaser pivot polisher and the baby cylindrical grinder

On the whole, I'd say the Schaublin is preferable, but they are both so nice its a bit unfair to pick a loser between them.  The Schaublin of course is a little bigger which probably factors into my preference.  Feels like the right size when something bigger than an 8mm is wanted, and in truth I haven't used the Levin much as I've been working on it.  Levin's are still made, but take a seat before you look at the prices.

The Levin duplicates a lot of functionality of the watchmakers lathes and the Schaublins, but with the accessories I couldn't pass it up.    Bit of a creepy feeling thinking 'my god, I may be a hoarder', but I justify it as it has some unique accessories.

Dan the Levin and Pultra imo are very similar quality, just excellent little machines.  Both are 10mm.  The 3C would be a nice format, much  Pultra was Smart Brown of course who made some the nicest lathes ever. The collets shown with the Levin are actually 8mm, i'm kind of in the market for a set of Levin 10mm, but in the meantime the Pultra's do fit it ( but not the other way around).  I've a Levin 8mm lathe I'll use them  with.  I have I think the parts to make up a second 8mm headstock for the Levein as well - same headstock and an 8mm spindle shaft.   Pultra was Smart Brown of course who made some the nicest lathes ever.  Haven't conjured a good rational for both....different colours?  :D
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Zephyrin on June 23, 2020, 09:27:48 AM
this is an amazing workshop, for sure, lot of the most famous tooling in all domains.
But I'm sure that everything is not here, a second floor, a barn, maybe ?
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Mcgyver on June 23, 2020, 10:57:57 AM
thanks, the larger stuff is in the garage. 
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: steamer on June 23, 2020, 04:57:28 PM
Hello.

You have some really nice stuff over there.
Can you say something about the quality of the Levin Lathe? I've never seen one but I'm very familiar with Schaublin 70 lathes. How would they compare? Are Levins still being made?

Lauri

I have a 1940 Levin 8mm    Spindle taper has "Broken indicator syndrome".....I'm guessing less than 50 millionths........
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Dan Rowe on June 23, 2020, 09:03:18 PM
i'm kind of in the market for a set of Levin 10mm, but in the meantime the Pultra's do fit it ( but not the other way around). 

I thought the only difference with Pultra 10 mm collets and Levin 10 mm collets was the thread form.
Pultra has a M10 x1 V sharp thread and Levin D collets and Derbyshire Magnus Elect 10 mm collets have a M10 x1 buttress thread.

What keeps a Levin collet from being used in a Pultra lathe with the correct drawbar?

Cheers Dan
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Mcgyver on June 24, 2020, 12:00:15 AM

What keeps a Levin collet from being used in a Pultra lathe with the correct drawbar?


the keyway, much narrower on a Levin 10mm collet.  Won't fit in the Pultra.  The Levin is a buttress, however there is a enough thread clearance the Pulta's will screw in ok with the Levin drawbar.  That's sub-optimal, which is why I'd like to get set.  I've made buttress thread drawbars before and may end up there, but have so many projects i'm sort of waiting to trip over a set to avoid adding to the list...and its nice if each lathe has a set

Not even sure about Derbyshire/Levin any more.  I've always thought they were interchangeable but a recently a post on a watchmakers forum of someone who purchased Levin 10mm collets says they won't fit his Derbyshire 10mm. 
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Dan Rowe on June 26, 2020, 04:47:58 PM
Not even sure about Derbyshire/Levin any more.  I've always thought they were interchangeable but a recently a post on a watchmakers forum of someone who purchased Levin 10mm collets says they won't fit his Derbyshire 10mm.

I have both Derbyshire and Levin 10mm collets and machines and the collets are interchangeable. I even have a Clement 10mm arbor and it fits both Derbyshire and Levin 10mm machines.

I have the adaptors for my 3C Levin headstock for 10mm and WW collets. To use the adaptors the 3C quick closer as to be removed and the plain 3C drawbar installed.

I needed a bunch of new drawbars that were longer and some so I could use Pultra arbors. I got lucky and found a tube that makes it simple. The tube is 16mm OD and you can get it with a 9mm ID and a 6mm ID. The 9mm ID tube is perfect for 10mm drawbars simply tap and cut the OD of the tube to what is needed and cut a shoulder for the handwheel.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/High-carbon-Steel-Seamless-Steel-Pipe-Tube-High-Pressure-Lowest-Price-/312757254193?var=&hash=item48d1c8f831

Now I have long adaptors for the headstock and I made a short version so I can attach it to the faceplate or any of the 10mm chucks and then simply pop them into the headstock with the 3C quick closer.

Cheers Dan
Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Ginger Nut on June 27, 2020, 11:31:36 PM
Wow I need to show the wife & family all of whom say I have enough tools n machines .

I like what you have done with the BCA I am on restoring a similar unbranded machine with a hex slot Sigma rotary table. The drive shaft & motor had been altered  by the previous owner he removed the yoke lay shaft n pulley and made it direct drive. I'm hoping to improve greatly on that.

Thanks for the tour.

Sent from my SM-T580 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: True confessions of a toolaholic
Post by: Mcgyver on June 28, 2020, 03:22:47 PM
thanks....the bca has been quite a project and isn't over yet.  The spindle is done, but I've been building a soft bearing dynamic balancer and wanted try balancing the spindle before final assembly.  The plan is to also get the BCA hobbing gears.  Toward that end there's an arm support as part of the new spindle and an encoder mount.  I also recently finished and successfully used an EDM sinker head on it....was making a fancy tube bender to get the bends on a model engine just right and broke a bit of carbide tooling in a piece.  Common theme eh?  make a tool to make a tool to make part for a machine to make a part for model.  This bloody tube bender has taken a while, changed out the mill bearings in the big mill in the middle of it, endless chores but getting there.

Today's task is painting the BCA and all the EDM parts.  I had been painting with an airbrush which works, but you have to dilute the paint quite a lot because of the small nozzle....going to try one of the cheapo offshore air guns today.  I'm also adding power feed to the Z (for boring) and probably to the X as well so needed a rework of the feed screw and its mount.  While in there, I figured i'd convert the feed screw mounts to angular contact bearings - i dislike a plain thrust there.

I also thought to make a vertical slotter and a drill head, but its way down the list.  I've milled and drilled oil passages to every bearing surface, something that  is disappointing more factories didn't do.  Its an easy mod that greatly improves the machine.

The basic bones of the machine are still there, but there's been a lot improvements done on it. 

btw, mine is also a Sigma Jones, never really knew what the difference was  clone?  license?  firm name change?

(https://i.imgur.com/65BzVXy.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/obyZFHn.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/3L30mVo.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/8RD7A84.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/GnFvOKU.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/e4zqwy5.jpg)

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