How to machine a square shaft in a steady rest

[smithdoor]

How to machine a square shaft in a steady rest

[crueby]

Clever. Did you have the ring rotate with the shaft, or did the shaft rotate inside the ring?

[philjoe5]

I've seen other versions of this and they're called a "cat head"

http://www.homemadetools.net/homemade-lathe-cathead

Phil

[smithdoor]

The ring is a lite press fit square shaft I also use for to dialing the 4 jaw

Here closer view

Dave



 

Clever. Did you have the ring rotate with the shaft, or did the shaft rotate inside the ring?

[smithdoor]

I have used the cat head in pass
Takes time to setup and I avoid using the cat head if I can
The ring simple and is fast to make and use
For chucking in a 3 jaw just split the ring in one spot. Center the square shaft ever time.

Dave

I've seen other versions of this and they're called a "cat head"

http://www.homemadetools.net/homemade-lathe-cathead

Phil

[DTR]

Clever, I'll have to remember that one. Thanks!

[philjoe5]

Thanks Dave.  I can see your method is simpler than cat heads I've seen.  I'll have to try your approach some time.

Cheers,
Phil

[PStechPaul]

For a piece of square stock 1/4", 3/8", 1/2", 3/4". or 1", you might be able to use a square drive socket. For other sizes maybe a 12 point deep socket. Another idea might be a piece of plastic stock pressed over the square piece, maybe using heat and melting it to fit.

[Brendon M]

Interesting ideas, thank you

[kev]

whenever I get to that last 1/2 inch of brass or ally that you cant do anything with I bore it out to a standard size, trim it and slice it, I have a small box full of split collars for holding Squares or even rounds when you dont want to mark the surface

[PJW]

thank you for that tip, one I will remember!!