Lathe Problem

[nicehice]

I have an older SS that was given to me last year. I have used the lathe a lot and have turned many things on it and also on non-SS lathes. My problem began last week. When I turn from either the front or side even if the piece is round to start with it will not turn correctly. Instead,when the tool hits the wood it creates an in and out motion like a piston.It's not like the motion the tool feels when the wood is out of round, which is like an up and down feel caused by the irregularities of being out of round. This motion will not quit no matter how much wood you take off.Neither the wood or the face plate appear to be loose.

[wa2crk]

When the piece is out of round the lathe chisel will kick back toward you when it kicks off the piece. You really have to hold the tool down very firmly down on the tool rest to get it round. If everything is locked down tight it should get round. The kick back should diminish as the piece approaches round. If it does not come round then check the headstock to tailstock alignment. The point centers should align when they are brought together.
Bill V

[moggymatt]

Any chance you can post a video?

[nicehice]

I'll try

[nicehice]

I do hold the tool tightly and I know it should get round, but it doesn't. It is aligned. Everything is tight. It's as if the piece is turning around but also going back and forth.

[nicehice]

After much trial and error I determined that the Speed Reducer that I was using got out of alignment.Thanks to those of you who offered your input