A QCTP for my MYford ML7

[ruxu]

After using my ML7 lathe for over 10 years with the original tool clamp I finally got around to make a QCTP. I looked for different designs and and after evaluating the pros and cons of them I decided to make a type that clamps around the dovetails instead of pushing the dovetails against oneanother. The main reasons for the choice was,

• the parts were relatively easy to make
• the design was sturdy
• by increasing the original base size from 76 x 76 mm to 78 x 78 mm I can make " dropdown" toolholders that can be set below the mounting surface of the QCTP main body and can take tools with a larger shank than the maximum 12mm normally possibly for ML7
• the design was more in line with the overall look of a ML7
• the toolholder design was simple for making the numerous holders I need

Here are some pictures taken during various stages of the machining of the parts.





Here is a picture of the finished QCTP with the main parts separated. The pressure bearing under the main body locking arm makes locking possible with very little force on the locking arm. The locking of the toolholders also works with very little force on the locking arm.



And finally a picture of the finished QCTP fitted on my Myford ML7. With the mounting block that replaces the top slide fitted the combination is very sturdy and the turned surfaces are generally much better than with the original Myford setup.



Now I just have to cut and finish about 18 toolholders from the semi finished toolholder bar.