I'm using an Axminster CCL
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This is either the cheapest dog in the pound, or else it's a bargain version of their M900 for half the price.
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In general I like this lathe - and it's unbeatable for that price. Variable speed, swings 11" over the bed, plenty of power for the size, nice well-damped iron bed, and the headstock swivels to allow bigger bowl turning. And that's where the problem lies - the headstock clamp-down.When I take a heavy cut, particularly diving into end grain, the headstock visibly lifts on its clamp. Obviously this is a problem for vibration and accuracy. I was turning nylon bar on it recently and was having significant trouble with chatter. If I'm using a tailstock centre it's not too bad, but it doesn't inspire confidence when working big bowls swivelled away from the tailstock support. I've got some 18" blanks ready to go and I'd really like to do something with it before I start.
Does the M900 have the same problem?
Anyone worked out a fix for it ?
Unfortunately most of my metalworking kit is in another workshop from the lathe, so my usual Scrapyard Challenge approach isn't easy.