Using steel rule and 90-degree tangent for centre height tool setting Quick and easy

[Jonny]

Hi All
I have seen a lot of lathe centre height setting gauges. (which I might add are nicely made) I usually set my tools against the revolving centre or dead centre from the tailstock. If I need to set a tool half way in to a job which is supported by the tailstock I use the following quick fix. I use a steel rule and simply set this between the work piece and the tool to be set. If the rule leans forward the tool is to high and if the rule leans back to low. So, when the rule is upright the tool is on centre height and therefore, the cutting edge must be at a 90-degree tangent to the centre line/height of the machine. Simply and very quick.

photo showing rule between component and rule



Tool to high



Tool to low



Tool at centre height




Thank you for viewing
The Home Engineer

Congratulations
Finally, Someone has remembered the simplest and possibly best method of locating a lathe tool on center.
I have quite enjoyed all the clamor of building "Hight Gages" to do the job when the absolute simplest and best method of locating was using a thin flat piece of metal against the work or something on the lathe that is always on the vertical center.
An OLD Tool Maker
Jon