Decided to make a handwheel for my mill. Problem was to and find something the right size. I searched the net for an old tractor steering wheel problem was everyone thinks their made of gold and want ridiculous prices, not much under $75.00. So I decide to make one for the heck of it. My thought was to use 1/2" EMT conduit, problem was how do I bend it. I thought of using a conduit bender but again pretty expensive to buy for a one of project, I wasn't really sure it would actually do the job. So the first project was to make a ring roller. Now that conduit has been rolled to 14" dia. I have to weld it up. Well the next dilemma the EMT is too thin for arc welding even with 1/16" rod, I was afraid of blowing thru, especially welding the 3/8" spokes, so next thing to do it was to buy a small oxy-acetylene torch, and I'll braze it. So I picked one up from TSC Stores on sale, made by Hobart. I wanted one for a while but couldn't justify the purchase, now I had a excuse..
The end result I have a custom handwheel, a ring roller, and a new torch kit.
The end result I have a custom handwheel, a ring roller, and a new torch kit.
