Stuck Chuck

Put some oil in the spindle threads and replace Chuck.

Put in lowest not back geared speed

Rotate Chuck such that one jaw is horizontal and front.

Place biggest adjustable wrench you have on it to create a lever.

Old process was to use Chuck key.

Get biggest heavy helper like object and gently tap on said wrench.

It is the transfer of energy that will break it loose.

Heavier is better as you are gently tapping.

Small hammer no food as large mass of Chuck absorbs energy.

A 5 pounder not so much.

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Get some dry ice. Get necessary tools together and immobilise the spindle, preferably without using back gears. Shave a piece of dry ice to just fit into the spindle hole. Heat backplate evenly with a propane torch, then slip in the dry ice piece and have at it. If no luck the first time, let everything come back to room temperature before trying again.
-Mark
 
Forgot to mention, a long soak with penetrating oil or solvent may be required over a couple days.
If your spindle has a v-belt drive pulley you can pinch the belt with vise-grips or a clamp then wedge against the headstock to hold it. Yes it will slip a bit, and you may mess up the belt some, but it will allow you to give some pretty good whacks to the backplate without damaging anything. Be careful not to hit the ways or pinch your fingers. LOL
 
My prior lathe, a 10" Rockwell had broken back gears from another owner removing a stuck chuck. I'm happy to hear it went well!
 
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