Looking For Small Dividing Head

Jay-z

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In the market for a small dividing head with tailstock. Need 4" or 5" chuck on head. Indexing small shafts so the swing can be small. Has to fit on 32in milling table.

Jay
 
I wonder how they compare to the ones on eBay? Anyone have some experience with these?

Jay
 
I wonder how they compare to the ones on eBay? Anyone have some experience with these?

Jay

They pretty much come out of the same Asian factory. They are very accurate for us HSM.
Just keep in mind they are only set up to do simple dividing. They will not do differential indexing or hook up to your lead screw on the mill table.
But, they will take care of 99.9999% of the indexing you may need to do going forward.

I have a small one like the one suggested by Quality Machine. It has the basic three index plates and a 5" chuck I mounted to it over the years. I also mounted a riser plate that is about 1.500" thick to get the center height up enough to increase the swing capability, and be able to use the tailstock I use with my super spacer.
My suggestion is to get one that is complete like the new one being sold by Quality Machine. Many being sold as used on eBone and other websites are not complete, missing major components, that cannot be replaced without making the parts yourself. Just my two bits worth.
 
You only live once and I enjoy tinkering in the shop. Quality tooling has a look and feel about it that can carry over to your work. That said, I have a small Ellis fitted with a 4” Buck chuck and love it. If budget is not a concern, that is what I would procure…Dave.
 
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