Louis R. Moran wrote: (clip) I need to get one (a chuck) to accept the attachment to do pens (clip) ^^^^^^^^^^^^ If I remember right, that lathe has a #1 Morse taper in the spindle. You can buy a pen mandrel that fits that taper, and suppport it at the tailstock with a live center.
That's a great way to start, because they don't make great demands on your turning skills, and the results can be very impressive.
I just got a used ridgid lathe and it works fine. It doesn't have a chuck on it do I need to get one to accept the attachment to do pens ?. I am not familar with lathes at all.
----------------------------------------------- Louis, The Ridgid lathe is a clone of the Sears monotube lathe. Sears still carries Morse taper (MT1) accessories for that lathe. They also have a couple of 3/4 in, 16 TPI, faceplates. Their prices are better than most other suppliers. I would recommend you get the Work mandrel and Jacobs chuck combination. This will allow you to mount a pen mandrel between the chuck and rotating tail center. That will get you into pen turning at minimal cost. I would also reccomend checking the set screws that hold each of your pulleys in place. They tend to work loose and cause mysterious problems. Good luck. Ken Moon Webberville, TX
Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.
Ask the community — no account required