Lathe Inspection and Speed Control

[azita17]

When i'm working on the lathe, I often want to stop and see my progress without the workpiece spinning. Can I just turn the machine off at the higher speed I'm working at, inspect the piece, and then turn the machine back on? Or do I need to move the machine dial to "slow," turn off the machine, inspect, turn on and move up the speed every single time I want to inspect my work?

[algale]

It may depend on what you are turning. If it is heavy and of large diameter, it may be advisable to slow it down so that when you go to start up again you aren't asking the motor to move a large mass.

With a spindle or small bowl, I wouldn't worry about it.