How much backlash is acceptable on the cross slide of a lathe?

[pontiac428]

I'm happy with .010-.015 dial backlash on mine. Lots of factors at play to reach that number, but the key is to always feed into the work.

 

[ericc]

pcmaker, 0.007" does not sound bad. I have been making do with 0.053" which is more than half a turn. You have to stay sharp, since sometimes the dial can drift. There is a short video at:

Backlash too much?

It feels like there is a lot of backlash in the cross slide screw. I took it apart and it is quite a bit less than 0.1". The screw is worn to points in the middle. Attached is a short video. Is this too much?

www.hobby-machinist.com

 

[aliva]

My cross slide nut has a split and a screw to adjust backlash. Mine has .0003 according to the DRO

 

[Larry$]

I use the DRO for most work. It tells me If I have any creep. Putting some drag on with the cross slide lock may help if you are getting creep. Otherwise like others have said just always feed into the work.

 

[Mitch Alsup]

I have a PM1127 lathe and it's got a DRO. If I grab the cross slide and push and pull on it, the DRO will show about a .007 backlash.

Using good technique at the handwheels, one can tolerate as much as 0.050 of backlash.
Of course you don't want any, but there are techniques that pretty much eliminate your need to be concerned.