Model Engine Maker

Supporting => Tooling & Machines => Topic started by: steamer on July 15, 2017, 11:04:47 PM

Title: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on July 15, 2017, 11:04:47 PM
I was overtaken with the urge....and I succumbed....

Always been a fan of the "war finish" Levins....

I'll let you know when I get my hands on it...
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Vixen on July 15, 2017, 11:18:18 PM
Dave,

Don't see much wrong with giving in to that sort of temptation. Neat little thing.

Mike
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on July 15, 2017, 11:37:21 PM
Needs a cross slide....I have a new bench for it as well...

Like the spindle speed   >4000 rpm

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: 90LX_Notch on July 16, 2017, 12:31:25 AM
One word: jealous.  Oh the very small parts I could make with one.  Very nice Dave, enjoy it.

-Bob
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Maryak on July 16, 2017, 12:32:30 AM
I was overtaken with the urge....and I succumbed....

Always been a fan of the "war finish" Levins....

I'll let you know when I get my hands on it...

 :ThumbsUp: :ThumbsUp: :ThumbsUp: :ThumbsUp:
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on July 16, 2017, 12:39:34 AM
Not bad at all Dave. A very nice little acquisition!! You will enjoy it I know. What type of collets does it take?

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on July 16, 2017, 01:11:23 AM
I just remembered Cletus saying something about having a Model B Levin he was getting out of mothballs a while back. Unfortunately the pictures are no longer there due to the PB thing :(

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: crueby on July 16, 2017, 01:14:14 AM
And what was the 'bad' thing??  Seems perfectly fine to me!
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on July 16, 2017, 01:32:33 AM
I made some bushings for work....like work work....the other day

Standard T headed bushing.   The flange of the T was 1mm diameter    The bore was 0.6 mm and the OD of the body was 0.7 mm 

The overall length was 0.5 mm

Now Samantha Bell answered the call nicely....with one draw back.   I can't spin the spindle fast enough   Even at 2000 rpm..it wasnt' fast enough

I made 6 of these little things......that was fine.   but I realized that for REALLY tiny stuff...I need more speed

This little guy should do that..

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on July 16, 2017, 01:33:18 AM
And I prefer the grey paint to the chrome plating any day.     

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on July 16, 2017, 01:42:09 AM
Not bad at all Dave. A very nice little acquisition!! You will enjoy it I know. What type of collets does it take?

Bill

8mm  WW    I have some.   I'll need more.

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on July 18, 2017, 02:12:12 AM
Showed up today....

Numbers matching, no wear, hard bearing.......sweet

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on July 18, 2017, 12:11:52 PM
Always nice when things meet your expectations Dave. Nice find on the little Levin!!

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Dan Rowe on July 18, 2017, 12:35:20 PM
Dave, Sherline makes a WW arbor for the chucks they sell.
http://sherline.com/product/2090-2093-collet-to-thread-chuck-adapters/

Dan
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on July 18, 2017, 12:52:12 PM
That is interesting Dan, I had not seen that accessory before but had no need to. Certainly an easy way to add a chuck to a machine like Dave's. Now if they would only make a cross slide he would be in business :)

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on July 18, 2017, 12:56:02 PM
They're out there Bill....I just need to be patient...

It's on the list Dan!

Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Tennessee Whiskey on July 18, 2017, 01:01:50 PM
Yup, pretty close to my shiny version. The tailstock looks a bit different. The cross slides are out there, but, quite pricy. Maybe I will finally get mine running oneday.

Cletus
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on July 18, 2017, 01:14:57 PM
Yup, pretty close to my shiny version. The tailstock looks a bit different. The cross slides are out there, but, quite pricy. Maybe I will finally get mine running oneday.

Cletus

We'll need to do something about that Cletus....    Can't have this little one in the shop not earning her keep!...

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Tennessee Whiskey on July 18, 2017, 06:41:54 PM
I bought mine from an estate of a watch and clock maker/repairman. I have a complete set of collets, pot chucks, and all sorts of mandrels that I assume were for buffing and polishing. Along with the lathe I got everything in his shop. I have raw spring stock for days, I have itty bitty parts for watches and clocks that didn't require a battery, I have gears and pinions, I even have one of those super duper parts washers ( remember the green glass jars) Anybody needs watch shop tooling contact old Cletus at BR549 or PM me  :lolb:

Cletus
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Vixen on July 18, 2017, 07:09:00 PM
Hay Cletus,

Vintage shiny Levin, watch shop tooling + BR549 = Lucky Dog

Mike
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on July 18, 2017, 07:38:22 PM
LOL Cletus....wondering how many of us know where BR549 comes from  :lolb:

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Tennessee Whiskey on July 18, 2017, 07:46:03 PM
I bet Zee does. Junior Samples RIP
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Vixen on July 18, 2017, 08:13:39 PM
I guessed it was the BR549 Nashville county music band, hence Lucky Dog recording co. Did not know of Junior Samples.

Mike
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: crueby on July 18, 2017, 09:55:22 PM
Hee Haw!
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Tennessee Whiskey on July 18, 2017, 10:48:08 PM
Did y'all know that our own Zee has a sister in law that was one of those hot babes on Hee Haw . Don't remember which one, but, they were all knockouts. Now if T favors her sister, I can see why fruits, vegetables, and T distract our boy  :lolb:

Cletus
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on July 18, 2017, 11:11:05 PM
Check your PM and Email..... >:D
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on August 07, 2017, 12:31:47 PM
Picked up a few collets, and a storage box for the little girl.   

She needs a fitting name!     Cletus!!?

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Tennessee Whiskey on August 07, 2017, 02:45:38 PM
Me tinks Miss Lovey Levin would be lovely. Could strike up a romance with Mr. Silky  :naughty:

Cletus
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: CHP on August 07, 2017, 02:58:18 PM
this could be useful    :thinking:
 and expensive :o

http://levinlathe.com/menu.htm
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: mcostello on August 07, 2017, 08:48:01 PM
You said You did a bad thing? I read all the posts and did not find a ad thing anywhere. Gonna have to keep trying. (nice lathe.)
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on August 07, 2017, 09:37:02 PM
Ms. Lovely it is!
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on August 07, 2017, 09:43:14 PM
this could be useful    :thinking:
 and expensive :o

http://levinlathe.com/menu.htm
It's definitely a case of if you have to ask the price you can't afford it.
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: zeeprogrammer on August 07, 2017, 10:19:30 PM
Pardon me a moment Dave,...

1st off...sorry Eric...never heard of BR549. A bit (long bit) after my time.

Did y'all know that our own Zee has a sister in law that was one of those hot babes on Hee Haw . Don't remember which one, but, they were all knockouts. Now if T favors her sister, I can see why fruits, vegetables, and T distract our boy

Yeah. T's sisters are twins. Used to play in Branson then went to Nashville and had some time on Hee Haw. I've known them since they were 10.

They don't turn my head like T does.  :naughty:
When I met T, my head turned such that it locked.  ;D

Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Tennessee Whiskey on August 07, 2017, 10:26:46 PM
Dave, I'd leave the l out of Lovely and just call her "Lovey", you know, like Mrs. Thurston Howell the III on Gilligans Island  8).  Zee, BR549 was the phone number to Junior Samples' car lot on HeeHaw. Gee, a 70's TV lesson  :lolb:

Cletus
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Tennessee Whiskey on August 07, 2017, 10:28:48 PM
BTW Zee, which hay bale did T's twin sit on: I have a lot of the old shows archived.

Cletus
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on August 07, 2017, 11:18:08 PM
There must be a video clip of that somewhere Cletus. I can hear junior saying it in my head even now.

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Tennessee Whiskey on August 08, 2017, 12:34:36 AM
Sorry Tatah. Hey Professor, here's the uneducated a little look at HeeHaw and television in the '70's

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3kBYftE8DA

Cletus
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on August 08, 2017, 12:47:58 AM
Thanks for that trip down memory lane Cletus. I didn't' realize the show was on for as long as it was....that's a LOT of corny jokes  :lolb:

Prof.
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: 10KPete on August 08, 2017, 12:54:26 AM
That sure brought back some memories, Cletus.... wow.

Thanks,
Pete
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on August 08, 2017, 01:13:49 AM
Dave, I'd leave the l out of Lovely and just call her "Lovey", you know, like Mrs. Thurston Howell the III on Gilligans Island  8).  Zee, BR549 was the phone number to Junior Samples' car lot on HeeHaw. Gee, a 70's TV lesson  :lolb:

Cletus


Don't know Cletus.....think i'll need to go out there and look her in the eye and decide which name fits her better! :lolb:
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Dave Otto on August 08, 2017, 01:25:19 AM
Dave, I'd leave the l out of Lovely and just call her "Lovey", you know, like Mrs. Thurston Howell the III on Gilligans Island  8).  Zee, BR549 was the phone number to Junior Samples' car lot on HeeHaw. Gee, a 70's TV lesson  :lolb:

Cletus


Don't know Cletus.....think i'll need to go out there and look her in the eye and decide which name fits her better! :lolb:

But Lovey was a guy! maybe Ginger would be a better choice?  :lolb:

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on August 08, 2017, 01:28:39 AM
Pardon me a moment Dave,...

1st off...sorry Eric...never heard of BR549. A bit (long bit) after my time.

Did y'all know that our own Zee has a sister in law that was one of those hot babes on Hee Haw . Don't remember which one, but, they were all knockouts. Now if T favors her sister, I can see why fruits, vegetables, and T distract our boy

Yeah. T's sisters are twins. Used to play in Branson then went to Nashville and had some time on Hee Haw. I've known them since they were 10.

They don't turn my head like T does.  :naughty:
When I met T, my head turned such that it locked.  ;D

OK   as long as we're going there....was it one of these?
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on August 08, 2017, 01:30:10 AM
Dave, I'd leave the l out of Lovely and just call her "Lovey", you know, like Mrs. Thurston Howell the III on Gilligans Island  8).  Zee, BR549 was the phone number to Junior Samples' car lot on HeeHaw. Gee, a 70's TV lesson  :lolb:

Cletus








But Lovey was a guy! maybe Ginger would be a better choice?  :lolb:

Dave

no no no......definitely a girl...or classic statuesque beauty....not from the google search....if you know what I mean.....
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on August 08, 2017, 01:37:06 AM
OK   Went out and looked...

Drum roll please!

A esteemed and notable panel of judges... (me) has concluded after much deliberation....and a G&T.....that she shall be forever more referred to as............


Ms Lovely :Love: :cheers:

Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on August 08, 2017, 01:45:40 AM
As "L" hasn't been used much, she hasn't developed any worn parts....the quill is quite a good fit...so much so I'm going to leave that one be, and make a new quill for drilling


First step is a M42 drill blank with a OD tolerance of +0.000/-0.0002"   

From there I'll check the blank for straightness, and then I'll be putting a 1/8 collet bushing on the end for PCB drills      PCB drills are very good quality short drills with 1/8" shanks that almost invariably are made of carbide that run from about 0.006" up to say 4mm diameter.   This range is perfect so I just need to make a collet bushing...I'm sure Samantha Bell will be glad to help a girl out.

In watchmakers lathe parlance, a quill is called a "Runner"...or if you live in Central Massachusetts....a   "Runnah".....

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: zeeprogrammer on August 08, 2017, 02:51:06 AM

OK   as long as we're going there....was it one of these?

Nope. Try here.

http://norristwins.com/heehaw.htm

As for Lovey (Mrs. Thurston Howell the III)...all I can say is experience, class, and style...well.
And then there's the money.  ;D
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on August 10, 2017, 01:13:57 AM
Hmmmm
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on August 10, 2017, 01:16:19 AM
OK....back on task.      I got the runner blank.   A M42 HSS drill blank of 0.3125/0.3123 diameter.    It fit PERFECTLY.    On to the next part of the process...

I also got a nice storage box for her.   

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Dave Otto on August 10, 2017, 01:16:41 AM
Oops, I was thinking that is what she called him, you would think after all those years watching it after school every day my memory would be better.  :lolb:

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on August 10, 2017, 01:27:56 AM
Naah.....Not feeling it.     The Levin is far more girl than a rich real estate mogul who just wanted a free trip to Hawaii.

Ms Lovely it is.   


Glad we got through that ,,,,,might not sleep again tonight....   8)

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on August 10, 2017, 01:33:26 AM
Fits her well.
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on August 10, 2017, 01:37:44 AM
We will be needing pictures of all this Dave 😁. In your spare time of course.

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on August 10, 2017, 01:41:35 AM
We will be needing pictures of all this Dave 😁. In your spare time of course.

Bill

Trying to figure out what motor to drive her with....   I have a 1/6 HP 1725 induction motor...nice and quiet.   I also have a Sherline motor with variable speed....but not so quiet.

Ms "L" doesn't have to work about metal removal rates.......hmmm

In any case there is room for either motor as well as the lathe in box.   Then I'm going to put a tool tray above them for collets, cross slide, draw bar and runners.    Self contained and ready to be used but protected.

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on August 10, 2017, 01:44:23 AM
Nice...any progress on the cross slide yet?

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on August 10, 2017, 01:46:12 AM
Oh man that be secret Squirrel stuff right there!....

Now I'll have to send Vinny!

 8)
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on August 10, 2017, 12:05:38 PM
Anybody got a spare  1/8 or 1/4" or number 32 or 64 Levin 8 mm collet?

hmmmmm?


I'll have a good set with those two and what I have currently


Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Tennessee Whiskey on August 10, 2017, 12:31:12 PM
Cross slide, what cross slide   8). Let me look, don't know about extra collets  :shrug:

Cletus
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: CHP on August 10, 2017, 02:11:32 PM
Picked up a few collets, and a storage box for the little girl.   

She needs a fitting name!     Cletus!!?

Dave

Dave
what would be the size of that cross slide???
I think I have one here  :o
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Tennessee Whiskey on August 10, 2017, 03:21:20 PM
Dave (CHP), the lathes are Levin Model B.

Cletus
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Dan Rowe on August 10, 2017, 03:27:36 PM
Dave,
As you most likely know anything with Levin stamped on it goes for a premium price. This makes a Levin triple or double slide a bit expensive. The only reason to go with a Levin over a Boley or a Derbyshire of other good slide is the Levin has an extension of the main lead screw. The purpose of the lead screw extension is to use a screw cutting attachment.

http://www.watchtoolsonline.com/Screw-Cutting-Attachment-for-Levin-other-Watchmakers-Lathes-7047.htm

The other feature on a Levin slide that is not on other slides is there is a recess with a pin in the top surface this is for a hand lever. The lead screw can be removed and the hand lever attached for rapid travel.

I have been collecting Levin parts for a few years now. I started with a Levin triple slide that I got at a steamup for cheap. The rest of the lathe has not been cheap.

Dan
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Dan Rowe on August 10, 2017, 05:26:26 PM
Dave,
If you want to make a screw cutting attachment there is a set of drawings in Practical Benchwork for Horologists be Louis Levin and Samuel Levin. It has a lot of useful tips for micro lathe work.

I have a hand lever that I mentioned and I can make a drawing for anyone interested in making one for the Levin slide.

Dan
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on August 10, 2017, 08:52:45 PM
Dave,
As you most likely know anything with Levin stamped on it goes for a premium price. This makes a Levin triple or double slide a bit expensive. The only reason to go with a Levin over a Boley or a Derbyshire of other good slide is the Levin has an extension of the main lead screw. The purpose of the lead screw extension is to use a screw cutting attachment.

http://www.watchtoolsonline.com/Screw-Cutting-Attachment-for-Levin-other-Watchmakers-Lathes-7047.htm

The other feature on a Levin slide that is not on other slides is there is a recess with a pin in the top surface this is for a hand lever. The lead screw can be removed and the hand lever attached for rapid travel.

I have been collecting Levin parts for a few years now. I started with a Levin triple slide that I got at a steamup for cheap. The rest of the lathe has not been cheap.

Dan
The reason I got this lathe cheap is because it's a War Board Finish lathe and Not chrome plated.    Otherwise it would have been much more.
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on August 10, 2017, 11:30:10 PM
Pictures of lathe in box....and where this is heading...

Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on August 10, 2017, 11:48:43 PM
I just picked up a faceplate for this lathe.    Horological type.

Perfect

My objective is drilling really small holes    sub 0.015 and turning facing boring in the same size range

Between the horological plate faceplate and glue type faceplates and a handful of collets, I should be good to go.

Dave

Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on August 11, 2017, 12:33:14 AM
The box is perfect and room for more stuff in there too. Once you get all the accessories you need are you going to repaint it of leave the original war finish on it?

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on August 11, 2017, 12:45:18 AM
Haven't made up my m,ind on paint....if I do repaint, it would have to be a complete match color.....We'll see   I;'m getting ahead of myself


Dave

Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 02, 2017, 03:33:48 PM
A proper motor for her....with foot pedal..and it works perfectly   Little used.

I'm guessing 1930's....but in perfect condition.

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on September 02, 2017, 06:01:14 PM
You might want to replace those cords...they look to be about 1930 as well  :lolb:  Nice looking motor though !!

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 02, 2017, 09:46:30 PM
You might want to replace those cords...they look to be about 1930 as well  :lolb:  Nice looking motor though !!

Bill

Funny thing is Bill, they're perfect!    I wish they had a ground wire, but they are perfect.  This was not used that much that's for sure.

Hell the wicks in the oil cups are still wet with oil!


Dave

Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 03, 2017, 08:16:17 PM
Had a few minutes today.    Did some organization in the shop, and built my new bench.   It's a watchmakers bench, and it's perfect for small work....obviously

I then set up the Levin on the bench, and decided to spend some time cleaning it.

Wow!!!   This lathe has sit for a long time!!!   Oil Varnish was everywhere.   I pulled the spindle, and started cleaning with lighter fluid and PB Blaster penetrating oil.   The PB seemed to cut through the varnish the best.   The varnish was removed from the bearing surfaces with the PB, a clean bed sheet rag, and my thumbnail.    I was rewarded with bearings in perfect condition!   I'm still attacking the bearing bores, as there is still quite a bit of varnish in there.    I mean this lathe must have sit for 30+ years anyway!....there was even varnish on the bearing surfaces which have like a 0.0001" or so clearance...so it definitely sat for that to happen.

It's going to be a great addition that's for sure....pictures to follow

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on September 03, 2017, 09:46:30 PM
That jeweler's bench should be perfect for it Dave. Looking forward to the pics. As Cletus says, until there's pics, it didn't happen :)

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on September 03, 2017, 10:32:54 PM
Dave, might I ask where you got the bench?  Thinking it may be a good long term solution for the Cowells as well.

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 03, 2017, 10:39:20 PM
I got it on ebay from Grobet.

It's a true watchmakers bench, so it's high    39"      but for small work, that's perfect

It basically will put your line of site in line with the lathe spindle...so It's easy to get up close with an optivisor or a loop.

Dave


Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on September 03, 2017, 10:44:16 PM
Thanks Dave, I had done a google search and that one came up, wasn't on ebay though, I am guessing another of Grobet's distributors. It says it ships in two boxes with heavy duty packaging. Was that the same for your and if so, did you run into any shipping damage?

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 03, 2017, 10:47:24 PM
Hey Bill

Nope, put it together today.   Everything was in it, and the parts were not damaged.     It's OK....if I had the space and time, I'd a built one, but I don't

This will do though


Waiting for pictures to load from my phone.    Center height is a dead match.    Spindle run out at the collet face is less than 0.0001....it makes a tenths indicator quiver ever so slightly....I'll call that 0.000050"....   WOW! 

I got lucky that's for sure!

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on September 03, 2017, 10:52:43 PM
Sounds great!!! It was just waiting for someone to give it a little  TLC and a nice home :)  Will be a great addition to the shop.  Still worried about those electrical cords though  :zap:  :LittleDevil:

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 03, 2017, 10:56:22 PM
OK....that's a 0.050 Jo block.     Center height is spot on!

I have a M42 HSS drill blank that will be a drilling quill.    I need to put a 1/8" set screw chuck on it with a fine knurl and then we're in like Flynn!

Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 03, 2017, 10:57:49 PM
What I found, was that the varnish was on the front side of the bearings, and not the back...I theorize, it was stopped with belt tension on it....for a very long time!!!!

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 03, 2017, 11:16:16 PM
Here's some photo's
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 03, 2017, 11:23:22 PM
I'm going to mount the motor on an oak board with a slot so that I can move the motor side to side to line up the pulleys...though with the pedal, it is variable speed so I only need say a 2/1 ratio.

The motor will stay on the bench, but the lathe gets put in it's box when not in use.   I put 1 5/16 hole in the bench top to let me clamp the lathe to it.   

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 03, 2017, 11:24:22 PM
Now I need a good light right there...

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on September 03, 2017, 11:32:38 PM
I like it, just perfect for the Levin. Those storage drawers should be very handy too!!  Is there any finish on the wood?

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 03, 2017, 11:38:00 PM
I like it, just perfect for the Levin. Those storage drawers should be very handy too!!  Is there any finish on the wood?

Bill

Nope not at least that I can see....

Could put a coat of varnish on it....but probably not.

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 05, 2017, 04:04:14 AM
Making a new drill runner with integral 1/8" chuck so I can run TC pcb board drills.     The runner is a m42 HSS drill blank of 0.3125" diameter which matches the Levin runner diameter.

The chuck itself is bonded on, and will now be finished machined in place on the runner while in SB driven by a collet but supported at the far end by a steady rest.

The error will then be, assuming I have it set up correctly, only attributed to the highly reduced runnout from the collet at the far end, and the roundness of the blank itself.   Which appears to be within a couple of tenths.

The objective being to get the 1/8 bore dead concentric.   To do this I'll drill undersize and then bore to exact size.....

The fine knurl feels great in the fingers and will be the means by which I feed the drill in...as seen below.

The next to last picture shows the clamp I'll be using to tighten the chuck, which will be a split collet type closure.


Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 09, 2017, 12:11:01 PM
I just got a 3/16 Levin collet...and it was still in the oil paper!... :whoohoo:

Now for that elusive 1/4...and I think I'll have the collets I need going forward

I have the horological  face plate.....could use a tapped face plate I may wait for one, though I suspect I'll end up making one

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on September 09, 2017, 01:09:44 PM
What, no pictures Dave?  We need eye candy  ;)

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 09, 2017, 02:14:12 PM
What, no pictures Dave?  We need eye candy  ;)

Bill

Tonight....I'll get some work done on her, and I'll take a few snaps

Gotta work today......My Daughter is coming with me though....she gets to use the 80" HD conference room monitor for her computer art....she's pumped!...

Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 10, 2017, 01:39:32 AM
My 1/8 collet showed up today....building up my supply of Levin collets..

This little girl deserves good collets that's for sure

Pictures to come

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on September 10, 2017, 01:43:35 AM
Yep, what's the use in having a precise lathe if the collets (or chuck, or other accessories) just subtract from that precision  :headscratch:

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 10, 2017, 03:12:27 AM
OK  all I'm going to do for tonight.....any particular drill has a shank run out of about 0.0005" in the runner......that's about all I think I can expect.

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 10, 2017, 03:25:11 AM
Some eye candy....
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Florian Eberhard on September 10, 2017, 11:45:07 AM
Hi Dave

That is a very neat little lathe you have got there. But other than teasing everyone here, I can't see why it should be bad to buy something like that lathe  ;) 8) 8)

Cheers Florian


Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 10, 2017, 12:11:53 PM
Hi Dave

That is a very neat little lathe you have got there. But other than teasing everyone here, I can't see why it should be bad to buy something like that lathe  ;) 8) 8)

Cheers Florian

I now have 5 lathes.....I think I now qualify for some 12 step program.... 8)


Hi...my name is Dave.....I'm a lathe-aholic.....it's been 3 weeks since I bought my last lathe......
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: MJM460 on September 10, 2017, 12:50:35 PM
I am glad Florian mentioned that, as I have also been puzzled by something about these two threads.

"Bad thing" I understand.  You have each bought a nice lathe, I can understand that.

But what is the connection? :ROFL:    :ROFL:

MJM460
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on September 10, 2017, 12:57:31 PM
Thanks for the pictures Dave. That is an interesting little face plate. Hope you get some more play time today  :)

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 10, 2017, 01:07:25 PM
I am glad Florian mentioned that, as I have also been puzzled by something about these two threads.

"Bad thing" I understand.  You have each bought a nice lathe, I can understand that.

But what is the connection? :ROFL:    :ROFL:

MJM460

Just two friends......
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on September 10, 2017, 01:16:33 PM
MJM, maybe it's a more common reference over here. Think of it as a tongue in cheek admission to doing something that might otherwise be hard to justify, but which someone was compelled to do anyway just because they wanted to and could.

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Jo on September 10, 2017, 01:18:44 PM
I now have 5 lathes.....I think I now qualify for some 12 step program.... 8)


Hi...my name is Dave.....I'm a lathe-aholic.....it's been 3 weeks since I bought my last lathe......

5 you have caught me up  :o I will have to work a bit harder on that 70 ::)

Buying more machine tools being "bad" is what your other half tells you it is as then they can't spend the money. For the rest of us it is its a ploy to stop the bank manager moaning whenever you go in  :ShakeHead:.

Jo
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: MJM460 on September 11, 2017, 04:22:08 AM
Sorry Bill,  yes, I know it is tongue in cheek, and the meaning is quite clear, even though we perhaps do not use it so often here.

I was just trying to amplify the humour.

Oh well, my wife always says I have a strange/non-existent sense of humour, but I keep trying.  She says, "Very trying!".  (She actually just says, "Very!", but I thought I had better make it more clear.)

MJM460
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 15, 2017, 01:34:59 PM
I did contact Levin.

This lathe has "XZ" stamped on the underside of the Headstock and Tailstock.      That is all that is shown anywhere on the lathe as far as numbers or letters.   It also has "Levin    Hard" on the front of the headstock.   That signifies that the cone bearings are glass hard steel....the other choice would have been "B" for Bronze.

Levin purged a lot of their records, but they believe that my assumption that it is a WWII vintage lathe is right.   That puts it at one of the very early Levin's   who started making lathes around 1939.    Seems they started nickel plated, but during the war they painted them.   Interestingly enough, the tip over tool rest is nickeled....so I would surmise that it is a early WWII lathe and they used up the inventory of plated parts.    In any case..   It's a great find for the Steamer machine shop!   

She's an oldy!     She'll fit right in!   

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 15, 2017, 01:55:24 PM
I now have 5 lathes.....I think I now qualify for some 12 step program.... 8)


Hi...my name is Dave.....I'm a lathe-aholic.....it's been 3 weeks since I bought my last lathe......

5 you have caught me up  :o I will have to work a bit harder on that 70 ::)

Buying more machine tools being "bad" is what your other half tells you it is as then they can't spend the money. For the rest of us it is its a ploy to stop the bank manager moaning whenever you go in  :ShakeHead:.

Jo

You'll be working for the man a bit harder to pay for a 70!   LOL!

http://anglo-swiss-tools.co.uk/schaublin-70-lathe/

Dave

Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Jo on September 15, 2017, 02:31:41 PM

You'll be working for the man a bit harder to pay for a 70!   LOL!

http://anglo-swiss-tools.co.uk/schaublin-70-lathe/

Dave

No problem Dave: I have sufficient spare cash to buy a very nice one as I never found a need to build that other workshop and keep being reminded why it is better not to have it built  ::)


I may have mentioned before I don't get any return from the bank on my money so I am investing in my future i.e. buying castings and the machines for my retirement and the great thing is I can get an immediate return from the investment: I can enjoy indulging in using them today  :embarassed:


My supplier is still trying to tempt me as he has found a nice microscope bench to mount my one on 8)

Jo
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on September 15, 2017, 04:26:52 PM
Its always nice to know the history behind such a nice addition to the shop. Glad they were able to help out.

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 23, 2017, 11:42:52 PM
Did a little.work today on this lathe    .   The horological face plate was for  Marshall lathe.   So the key way needed to be extended and a spacer made for the draw bar.   That was easy.  Then it needed a pump center which I made today.   All done...pictures coming
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: crueby on September 23, 2017, 11:45:20 PM
Did a little.work today on this lathe    .   The geological face plate was for  Marshall lathe.   So the key way needed to be extended and a spacer made for the draw bar.   That was easy.  Then it needed a pump center which I made today.   All done...pictures coming
Terminology question - what is a 'geological' face plate?
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 23, 2017, 11:46:30 PM
A android trying to help me
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on September 24, 2017, 12:04:44 AM
Don't you just love auto-correct. NOT!!

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: crueby on September 24, 2017, 12:19:57 AM
Horological, geological, same thing! Well, not...
You should have made something up, might have invented a new term!

 :ROFL:
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 24, 2017, 12:24:22 AM
Photo 1
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 24, 2017, 12:31:30 AM
Installed
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on September 24, 2017, 12:51:22 AM
That is one fancy faceplate Dave.

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 24, 2017, 10:59:37 AM
This style of faceplate in use

http://www.geocities.ws/dushang2000/Horology/Lathe%20Tools/HR%20Faceplate%20in%20Use.jpg
The pump center is used to center a feature on the work to the axis of the lathe.   The rest is just clamps.


Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 24, 2017, 02:27:02 PM
Horological, geological, same thing! Well, not...
You should have made something up, might have invented a new term!

 :ROFL:

Naw   My droid can be more creative.......
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on September 25, 2017, 03:19:39 AM
Normal Faceplate coming along nicely.    Pictures to follow....

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 01, 2017, 02:12:01 AM
Making some accessories for the Levin, and a #12-40 ( 0.217" diameter x 40 threads per in )  Left thread and right hand is required.     #12-40 right hand taps are readily available, but not so the Left hand one...so    I made one!

I found this method at Practical Machinist, and I want to say it works awesome!

See pictures below

Dave


Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 01, 2017, 02:31:05 AM
The Left hand tap up close.....really easy to make!....and it really cuts quite well!    I wouldn't have believed it..

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Steamer5 on October 01, 2017, 06:03:03 AM
Hi Dave,
 Now that could be very handy! Can you give us a quick how to? It looks like only the front has full threads on it?

Cheers Kerrin
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 01, 2017, 12:18:37 PM
Kerrin....that's an artifact of the photo.   The threads go full length, and the tap has 4 flats ground on it at the business end.    You cut the thread on the tap, harden it, then grind 4 flats at about a 20 degree angle.   Now I milled 4 flat before I hardened it, but I still touched off on the grinding wheel on those flat faces after heat treat...the angle is not critical at all, but having the small end of the tap go below the root diameter is.   This tap needed guidance to get started, so I started it in the drill chuck of the lathe     It cuts amazingly well!.    I made the tap 0.219 diameter...like the commercial right hand tap I have.   I then cut the male thread to 0.218 diameter.     It has a very nice fit, with no shake.

Make sure you wrap the tool with iron wire, and either dip in silver solder flux, or liquid soap.    This will keep the tool from burning during heat treat.

I used 0-1 tool steel.   Silver steel to you blokes over there.

Brighten the tool up, polish the flats, and draw to brown.    That's it!

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 01, 2017, 12:54:58 PM
Just picked up this Countershaft.    I believe it was from a George Adams brand lathe, but I got it, because it's really compact, and will go in the box easily.

It's pretty crusty!....it spent a lot of time in a barn somewhere, but it's all there, and it works well.   I was able to take it all apart and give it a good acetone soak, and a good scrub.   I also put a coat of new black paint on the painted bits.    The nickel plating is coming off the rest of it so I think I'll just call that patina.     Anyway....once together, I'll post an after photo.

Picked up some more collets.   I got some used Levins, but I also got some Sherline WW collets as well    They seem fine.  I think I'm good now on collets

I also have a Starrett pin chuck coming that I'm going to use as a drill runner chuck.

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 01, 2017, 01:54:39 PM
Counter shaft mocked up.
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on October 01, 2017, 06:51:32 PM
Getting closer Dave. That countershaft cleaned up pretty well!!

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Steamer5 on October 02, 2017, 12:44:16 AM
Hi Dave,
 Thank for the explanation, stored away for a future need!

Cheers Kerrin
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 02, 2017, 04:14:26 AM
Second screw cut.   AND I made a prototype part for work.....you know....like WORK work..

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Alan Haisley on October 02, 2017, 07:33:38 PM

Dave,
I assume that you want the countershaft to help get the spindle speed up. With that motor, what speed do you expect to get?
Alan
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 03, 2017, 12:46:13 AM

Dave,
I assume that you want the countershaft to help get the spindle speed up. With that motor, what speed do you expect to get?
Alan

Alan,   top speed isn't the problem, the motor is capable of 10000 rpm.   It's low speed that will be the challenge.

The motor has a foot peddle rheostat, but it's touchy.    The countershaft will bring the speed down to something much slower when I need it, and I can always direct drive if I need to.

Dave

Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 13, 2017, 11:11:16 PM
Looks like ill have most of this weekend off! :whoohoo:
I'm going to work on this little lady.   Really looking forward to it!
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on October 13, 2017, 11:14:18 PM
Pics too please Dave. Well deserved weekend in the shop!!  Enjoy it!!

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 14, 2017, 12:05:24 PM
Yup   A few more bits and bobs.....should be fun!

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Tennessee Whiskey on October 14, 2017, 05:30:22 PM
Dang, all this retirement and time off talk sure makes me jealous  :lolb:

Cletus
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 14, 2017, 06:13:20 PM
Pictures will be taken..
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 16, 2017, 01:54:16 AM
Some more parts made today.....including a tool makers faceplate, and well....something else.

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 16, 2017, 02:14:12 AM
What I'm working on.....
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on October 16, 2017, 11:38:18 AM
And seemingly making good progress on too :)  The faceplate also looks good Dave. Will items be glued to it or will there be other holding means?

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 16, 2017, 12:07:43 PM
It will have a set of threaded holes in concentric circles.    I have glue chucks already, those are really easy to make.

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 16, 2017, 02:13:15 PM
tool makers faceplate from Levin....as a model...

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on October 16, 2017, 02:46:31 PM
Nice Dave, are you using aluminum or other?

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Dan Rowe on October 16, 2017, 02:47:16 PM
Dave,
Is the collet arbor bolted to the back of the faceplate with three screws like the Levin version?

I need to make one of those.

Cheers Dan
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 16, 2017, 03:46:59 PM
Hi Dan,

No.   I bought a blank arbor, and then loctited it to a steel disk, and turned it all over.

It will out live me, I'm sure.

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 16, 2017, 03:47:19 PM
Nice Dave, are you using aluminum or other?

Bill

All steel.
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 16, 2017, 03:49:01 PM
Cut the dovetails on that base this morning before work.   Now I just have to put in the leadscrew holes, which is always a bit tricky.    I'll set up one of my angle plates for that job.

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 16, 2017, 04:04:29 PM
The other thing missing on the face plate is a very accurately bored hole of probably 0.2500" diameter.   With that I can make any centering pin I would like.

That hole off course needs to be put in with the lathe it will be running in mounted in the spindle it will be running in.   So that part will have to wait.

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on October 16, 2017, 05:32:28 PM
The little Levin will be earning its keep before long it sounds like :) Nice work on all of it!!

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 17, 2017, 03:18:05 AM
It's always amazing how light the part is after, and how heavy it was to start!.... :ROFL: :lolb:

Well   The shop vac has to eat too right?

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: crueby on October 17, 2017, 03:32:37 AM
It's always amazing how light the part is after, and how heavy it was to start!.... :ROFL: :lolb:

Well   The shop vac has to eat too right?

Dave
That's usually when I know to empty the shop vac, when it falls over when rolling it across the shop!
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 18, 2017, 03:42:09 AM
13 hour day at work, and I rewarded myself with some shop time.    Dovetails cut, leadscrew mount complete.   Needs scraping, but that's a way off.

Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: crueby on October 18, 2017, 04:22:01 AM
Looks terrific!  How many bags of cookies to make one for my Sherline?!


 :popcorn:
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 18, 2017, 11:27:38 AM
Sherline should have them for reasonable money..    Levin.....hmmm not so much
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Tennessee Whiskey on October 18, 2017, 04:56:19 PM
Ok the cat is outta the bag. Looks great so far. That's okay, go ahead and make me feel bad  :stickpoke: :stir: :lolb:

Cletus
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 19, 2017, 05:01:01 AM
Ok the cat is outta the bag. Looks great so far. That's okay, go ahead and make me feel bad  :stickpoke: :stir: :lolb:

Cletus

Nah buddy, I just need to do something to keep my head on straight.     17 hour day today.....

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 21, 2017, 02:55:56 AM
Bottom slide slabbed.     Time to cut the dovetail......but not tonight.
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on October 21, 2017, 10:35:23 PM
Nice Dave. Still following along. The little Levin is really coming along well.

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Bjorn_B on October 22, 2017, 07:21:27 AM
This is good work! Keep it up, I have a small G Boley (size 2) that lacks the slides (amongst other bit and pieces). Been thinking of making my own.. Will keep a very close eye on this thread :happyreader:
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 22, 2017, 12:04:18 PM
This is good work! Keep it up, I have a small G Boley (size 2) that lacks the slides (amongst other bit and pieces). Been thinking of making my own.. Will keep a very close eye on this thread :happyreader:

The Boley 2 has a 65 mm center height compared to the 50mm on the Levin,  but I think this slide could certainly handle it as it's a bit "beefy".

You could always scale it up by 65/50 if you wanted to.

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 23, 2017, 12:24:05 AM
A little more done today....dovetails cut, nut blank made and installed....I need to drill and tap the nut in position....not too bad at all to make

Scraping "SHOULDN"T" be too involved.   it fits nice, and the dovetails were cut all with the same cutter and in 1 set up.   Then should be a good match.

I'll just check them though

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on October 23, 2017, 12:26:42 AM
Dave, what will you use for the gib? Brass?

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 23, 2017, 12:33:54 AM
Probably cast iron
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: Dave Otto on October 23, 2017, 12:43:16 AM
Nice work Dave!
I'm enjoying this little project.


Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on October 23, 2017, 12:47:28 AM
Thanks Dave  it's coming along pretty easy.
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on December 12, 2017, 12:26:55 PM
Just checking in Dave....any progress to report on the little Levin??

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on November 27, 2018, 02:54:32 PM
OK Dave, so its been almost a year, but now that the leg is better and the shop warm, hopefully you can gat back to this little project as well. Any progress on finding/making a cross slide for it?


Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on November 27, 2018, 07:13:49 PM
Ive started it as is documented, but ive not gotten any further.  I may just cave and buy one off the bay.
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on February 02, 2019, 02:19:40 AM
Almost there!.....

Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: b.lindsey on February 02, 2019, 02:39:09 AM
Looks right at home there  :ThumbsUp:

Bill
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on February 02, 2019, 02:40:12 AM
she's getting there that's for sure!

Got some handles drawn up....should be a easy "help a sister out" job for Samantha Bell.

Dave
Title: Re: I did a bad bad thing......
Post by: steamer on February 03, 2019, 11:11:21 PM
Finally!     It is alive!..   im going to change the motor to a small 3 phase and a potentiometer....but its alive    time tmake new ball handles.
Dave
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