Optimum 4-jaw chuck size for an 11" Sheldon.

[chrism]

I was wonder what would be better a 6" or a 8" chuck 4-jaw for an 11 inch Sheldon

 

[yugami]

I don't have a Sheldon but I believe many 11" lathes used a 6" chuck due to space. The jaws have to open past the max diameter to work on large stock so you could end up with an issue if you ever go to use its capacity.

 

[jumps4]

I have an 11x26 lathe and when working with odd shapes in the four jaw the 6" is about as big as I need to go.
steve