Thanks so much for taking the time to look at my situation. No angle on the 41T teeth (shame on the manufacturer) That worm was a replacement part I purchased when I added the bronze bushings you see. It does not have very many hours on it. I have the ability to adjust the worm/gear clearance and maybe I can save this pair. I'll give that a try. As to the design, yes I think it's not so good. But others seem to have had better luck or no complaints. And this same lathe is sold as a couple different brands. (Enco, etc). I'm coming around to the idea that I just got a lemon and I may just replace the apron casting (still hoping there's a new design), worm and and gear. Cost may be 200-300, but that's relatively inexpensive.