Four Bolts Compound Clamp

[Toolmaker51]

Sometimes I question whether to use QCTP or 4-way. IMO decision lies on combined operations a part requires; our work lathes are not equipped to exchange. My own machine I can rig accordingly. The work machines shortfall; turrets [4-way] index 8 positions but they're tied to compound, I regard this fitting out inadequate.
Sufficient incidents prove whether HSS or insert tooling is used, you get overhang/ interference/ poor tool clamping during chamfering, form tools, 45° necking, and other finishing sequences.

[LMMasterMariner]

Removing compound slide is an excellent idea for extra rigidity, but in this case 4 bolts compound clamp is not required at all. I also don't use compound slide too often and installation of big (even 120 x 120mm) 4 way tool post on additional steel block is one excellent idea to consider. Thanks for that.

Cheers
LMMasterMariner

[olderdan]

Removing compound slide is an excellent idea for extra rigidity, but in this case 4 bolts compound clamp is not required at all. I also don't use compound slide too often and installation of big (even 120 x 120mm) 4 way tool post on additional steel block is one excellent idea to consider. Thanks for that.

Cheers
LMMasterMariner

I can confirm the benefits of removing the top slide out of the equation for the smaller lathe, a micrometer bed stop will give a precise depth function. Most of us will push our machinery beyond its comfort zone at times and this mod does help with rigidity and finish.
Top slide alternative
I did this some years ago and is now the way I turn most of my work.

[DIYer]

Thanks tonyfoale! We've added your Fixed Tool Post to our Tool Holders category,
as well as to your builder page: tonyfoale's Homemade Tools. Your receipt:

Fixed Tool Post by tonyfoale

tags: tool post

[sniffipn]

My similar effort uses 3 bolts but I went for extra rigidity by eliminating the compound slide. It only takes a minute to revert back whenever (seldom) I need the slide.
I also added a rear tool post rigidly attached with a 4 way tool holder permanently loaded with a turning tool, cutoff tool and drill chuck with a spot drill.

Attachment 32038 Attachment 32039 Click images for full size.

i like the idea of spot drill being available, Tony. in the absence of a capstan(?), i remove the drill when not in use. minimises risk of nusiance injuries. what are your thoughts as to the quick way to centre the drill when its not in the tailstock please? i dont have digital readout.
thanks
David

[marksbug]

Ive been meaning to make one for my enco 9x20. but I do very little these days so...probably never happen.

[tonyfoale]

i like the idea of spot drill being available, Tony. in the absence of a capstan(?), i remove the drill when not in use. minimises risk of nusiance injuries. what are your thoughts as to the quick way to centre the drill when its not in the tailstock please? i dont have digital readout.
thanks
David

David,

I must have missed this when it was posted. Here is another post which describes a few methods of alignment.
Lathe drilling from the toolpost.