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The need for a large ctr hole could also have been considerably reduced if the topslide had just been set over to cut the short taper,
using such a long length of bar you would have had to offset 3-4 times as much and with the other end in a 4-jaw rather than between ctrs means the bar has to be bent which probably added to the over heating problems
The geometry didn't work - I couldn't do that without the topslide fouling on the tailstock, and the saddle would be off the front of the bed if I tried it the other way.
That is often a problem when working with tailstock support. My solution was the extended toolholder shown here: http://www.charleslamont.me.uk/iqc_toolpost4.html
BTW, Your Myford should have come with a catchplate as part of its standard equipment.
Looks like things are progressing in good order for you Allen, although I have to say that I am a bit put-off at seeing that drill chuck key hanging out there while the machine is running.