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Posted: Tue Dec 24, 2013 9:30 pm
by billmayo
2centsworth wrote:Bill can you send a picture. Sounds exactly what I am interested in. as usual asking here is always the best solution !
Happy Holidays !

This is my drilling, tapping and milling Shopsmith. I have the X/Y vise with the rotating head setting on the table. The table is a steel Total Shop table. I have short 2X4s to support the table and I raise or lower the headstock with a bottle jack to get within the ball park.
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Posted: Tue Dec 24, 2013 9:48 pm
by billmayo
2centsworth wrote:Is there any difference in the size of the tubes once cut ? I know the bottom tubes need to be 3/4 inch longer then the top - but does that still hold if shorten to 13 inches ?Thanks
The way tubes can be any length if you are cutting the bench tubes shorter than 26 3/8" (MINI) as you cannot lay the headstock in the down position for any work, only use in the vertical position. Just cut both bench tubes the same length. The 1954-1955 "A" headstock Shopsmith had the larger diameter bench tubes. Later models have the 1.75" dia tubes and you could use either way or bench tubes at either position. Normally the way tubes have a better quality and shiner finish on them.
I cut 10" off my way tubes on my drilling, tapping and milling Shopsmith so the tie bar would clear the fan that was up in my shop and to move the Shopsmith outside my shop. You will want to check your door height if moving the vertical Shopsmith outside for any reason as I am sure you will need to cut them for door clearance.