HF 8x12 Lathe - Proper cutting tool for tool holder

[gorlosky]

Hi - I am confused about how a 3/8 inch cutting tool fits in the standard tool holder of a HF 8x12 Lathe and aligns with the center line of the part ? The tool is about 1/8 inch low from center line . Does that mean that I should be using a 1/2 inch tool, yet the specs call for a 3/8 inch tool ? Years ago I used the tipping type tool post which you could tip to perfect alignment.

 

[darkzero]

If you are using the standard 4 way tool holder that came with the lathe you will need to use shims to shim the cutting tool to proper height. This is one of the reasons why quick change tool posts excel, they are a great investment.

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BTW I used to have the same lathe. I made quite a few mods on it.

http://www.hobby-machinist.com/showthread.php/11048-My-HF-8x14-Mini-Lathe-Mods

Unfortunately I didn't document everything since I don't have it anymore but there's some in that thread. I can try to help answer questions about if you have more.

 

[gorlosky]

I read those posts - very informative.
Yep - using the standard tool holder. I see a Quick Change at LittleMachineShop.com , but I have the cutoff and the boring for 1/2 shank, so not a good deal. Too bad they didn't have a single sided unit, much cheaper. Well, I'll chuck up the dead center and make some shims and be done with that, really, how often is 3/8 not 3/8
PS: It was a Rocker Tool Post that I was thinking of.
http://www.use-enco.com/CGI/INPDFF?PMPAGE=494&PMCTLG=00

 

[Ziuck]

There is a good bit of info on the 8x14 over at the Candle Power Forum "http://www.*****.com/vb/showthread.php?171871-Mods-for-my-HF-8x14-lathe" also CNC Zone "http://www.****.com/forums/mini-lathe/95419-8x14-lathe-slow-mod.html"

Sorry I didn't post the full links as I'm not sure if they are allowed here.

 

[gorlosky]

Thanks - reviewed those and see that CNCzone guy had similar problems, but I wish he had the Chuck runout issue, because he would have solved it.