Shopsmith Forums

I ran across an article showing how to make threaded glue blocks for turning on the lathe (http://aroundthewoods.com/gblock.shtml). I got to thinking about doing something similar that would mount directly on the ShopSmith.

My initial thought is to glue up a block, drill a 5/8" hole for the spindle, drill and tap a hole in the side from the set screw. Then, mount the block on the spindle, turn to the desired diameter - and have a ShopSmith mountable glue block.

I've already glued up the blocks (made of Ipe) - they're sitting on my workbench waiting for drilling (or the trashcan).

Thoughts and cautions most welcome.

Jim

A quick status update.

I've drilled the mounting hole, which fits pretty nicely. I also drilled and tapped the set screw hole.

Unfortunately, the set screws don't hold - it feels like they are stripping out the threads. I'm using 3/4" long 5/16" set screws (to be compatible with ShopSmith conventions).

So, now I need to determine if the set screw will ever hold in wooden threads. I can get a screw with larger threads, a longer set screw or figure out how to line the hole with metal - to get metal threads. Or, I can try a different wood (hard maple?) as Ipe may not be dense enough for this task.

Jim

depending on the diameter of the glue block where the 5/8" hole is located you could drill the hole large enough for a 5/16" nut ( around 1/2") and epoxy it in the hole for threads. if you wish for a smaller hole you could double up (jam) 2 nuts together on a long 5/16" bolt and grind the hex as round as you can then drill a hole in the wood block ( around 7/16") and epoxy the rounded nut in the hole gaining the metal threads you desire. i rarely use a faceplate for turning anymore since purchasing a chuck. but when i did i could use the wood block numerous times merely by truing it up time with a few light passes keeping in mind the length of the attaching screws. would not want to hit them with a tool.

I think I remember Rick telling us in a TA class that SS uses "non-hardened" set screws to attach stuff to the spindle. If you use regular set screws from a hardware store and overtighten them, they might damage the spindle.

Anyone else remember hearing anything like that?

Gary

greitz wrote:Anyone else remember hearing anything like that? Gary

No, but it makes perfect sense after looking at my spindle and the ends of set screws used in arbors for years. The screws are worn while the spindle is shiny.

Why not just mount a glue block to the faceplate. That's what I do. Sounds like a lot of extra trouble trying to do what you're describing. But that's just me.

Thanks for the ideas and info. Guess I'll have to order some non-hardened set screws...

As to why I would want to do this - guess there are several reasons.

1) When you have a cool "erector set", you want to make your own parts :-)

2) I'm on a bit of a budget right now, so being able to manufacture my own faceplate/glue blocks is attractive.

3) Playing with little projects like this is how I tend to learn things best.

Thanks,

Jim

Go for it, Jim! I'm anxious to hear how it works out. I'm sure it will be great. It will be even better because it is yours. Hope you can post some photos.

dusty wrote:Go for it, Jim! I'm anxious to hear how it works out. I'm sure it will be great. It will be even better because it is yours. Hope you can post some photos.

Thanks for the encouragement Dusty!

I've rounded over 2 nuts and enlarged the hole to fit them (1/2" worked great). The nuts are now glued into the block with epoxy. I need to deepend the shaft hole a tad. Unfortunately, my miter guage is stuck in the miter track (stuck set screw - see thread in Maint & Repair).

Once I get the miter guage free, I'll finish up the project and post pictures.

Jim

The glue block you are trying to make is designed for a threaded spindle and I am not sure you will have much luck adapting it to a SS. I find that double stick tape on a block mounted to my steel face plate holds quite well. I then mount what I am turning to the block with double stick tape or CA glue. Just my 2 cents worth.
ldh