From time to time I have a use for specific washer configurations. For example, I have been making up some threaded mandrels to mount on a 1/2" or 5/8" motor shaft to then mount buffing wheels, wire wheels, etc. The usually are 1.5" in diameter, with a set screw to fasten to the motor shaft with a 1.5" threaded section, usually 5/8 x 18 threads. I have been using thick washers from Ace Hardware that I bore to the threaded shaft size to mount and hold the wheels. I have toyed with the idea of making my own washers and from time to time have needed a custom thickness or taper to one face of the washer. I can't think of any other way to do it other than to use the lathe to make one face then use a cutoff tool to complete the washer (after boring the center hole). Could use the bandsaw but then I would need a clever way to chuck up the washer and face it off - seems sort of tricky. I have a 12x36 lathe with 3 and 4 jaw chucks, and faceplate, metal bandsaw, and a mill. Anyone have other ways to fabricate special washers? The ones I need are about 1.5" dia and up to .250 thick. Ace charges $1.80 ea but it is a 30 mile round trip there so making them at home is a time saver.
Steve in Central TX
Steve in Central TX