Shopsmith Forums

To improve the ease of use and functionality I made some modifications.
First, I made a top access to the Tool Post locking mechanism.
Second, reduce a little weight.
Third, provided a handle.

Tailstock extension is a sweet addition.

Finally figured out a working lathe extension. I fitted a 6x6 post into the 20" way extension on my Nichols ~1200 lb. lathe anchoring it to a cross bar in the way using a lag bolt and big washer. I cut two pieces of angle iron and attached them to the other end and fitted the 6x6 to the tail stock end of my shopsmith. Two 6" Irwin Quick Grip clamps on the flat spot on the inside of the SS leg and the angle iron brackets secure the SS to the 6x6. I show a blurred 60" shaft running with this set up in the pic. Notice that the SS is not blurred meaning no vibration! If there was vibration, these clamps would pop off. I had salvaged an old Delta tail stock which fits perfectly on the Nichols and matched the center point on the SS .

This is a truly unique solution in my situation using what I have sitting around my shop.

Long lathe.

Good job, gpuckett