Using the lathe like a shaper

[Frank S]

I needed to cut a 2 1/2" long keyway in a couple of 5/8 diameter shafts and I didn't have an end mill small enough for the task.
So what I did was to lay a piece of HSS that I have ground for cutting groves on its side in the tool post and used the carriage wheel to cause the action of a scraper going back and forth.

If projects like these are going to be on going I see a whole host of new tools I am going to have to make soon

[mwmkravchenko]

Takes a while, but gets it done.

[nova_robotics]

Beauty. Plus now you'll have plausible deniability when people ask you why your right arm is so much more muscular than your left.

[Frank S]

Beauty. Plus now you'll have plausible deniability when people ask you why your right arm is so much more muscular than your left.

Actually the carriage wheel on my lathe is to the left side. Which is perfect for me I'm 60% left hand dominant this lets me do the cross slide feed with my right

[nova_robotics]

Actually the carriage wheel on my lathe is to the left side.

Mine too. It was a bad joke implying you were a chronic masturbator.

[DIYer]

Thanks Frank S! We've added your Shaper to our Machining category,
as well as to your builder page: Frank S's Homemade Tools. Your receipt:

Shaper by Frank S

tags: shaper, grooving

[wizard69]

If projects like these are going to be on going I see a whole host of new tools I am going to have to make soon

Once it starts it never ends. When you find your self "just having to build a new shop" you will know that the bug has bitten hard.

[Frank S]

Once it starts it never ends. When you find your self "just having to build a new shop" you will know that the bug has bitten hard.

I already have plans in the mill to add another 6000 to 9000 sq ft. with the first part being a 30x 40 addition for metal storage