Info on anld old Harmon, Rickard & McCrone lathe

Oct 08, 2003 5 Replies

I am looking for any information on the following lathe:



Harmon, Richard & McCrone, Model #116, "The Porter". This lathe appears to have been built in San Francisco about 1900 - 1920. It was belt driven with leather belt approximately 2 " wide.



I have acquired most of the components of this lathe and need to find an original or similar tool rest and banjo.



Nay information or leads would be helpful.



Thanks,



snipped-for-privacy@pacbell.net


You might find some info on your lathe here.

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It sometimes takes a little digging, but there is a wealth of info on the site.

Good luck, Dave

David Peebles Lyons, Ohio Revolutions Woodturning

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Since we are on the subject of old machines (thanks for the link) maybe somebody has the answer to this.

I believe that Poolwood and Nova think that they are the first to build direct drive machines. Some years ago at an auction of surplus 'stuff' for the St. Louis Public Schools, I saw several old direct drive lathes. I think that the various speeds were a function of sawitching different windings on the motor. But, these were definitely direct drive lathes. My mind says that the manufacturer's name started with a 'B' -- can anybody help? Also, I'd bet that there may be some old patents out there somewhere.

Bill

Hi Bill, I don't know what Poolwood claims but Nova is saying that they are the first to use direct drive with Digital Variable Reluctance (DVR). I don't think they are claiming a first in direct drive.

Bob, Naugatuck Ct.

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Bill, I have an old catalog for Hall and Brown Wood Working Machine Co., and they list several models of direct drive lathes. They show both AC and DC models, both variable speed. They're 12" swing and came with a 4' long bed, but apparently longer beds were available in one foot increments.

Roy Girolami Apex, NC

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