Has anyone built their own backrest? I'm pretty good with metalworking (built my steady rest) and would like to avoid the $500 buying one. What I need are the dimensions of the various parts.
I did a quick Google search and found 1 reference on vintage machinery for a back rest. Looks like some sort of spindle steady.I've never heard any lathe parts called a backrest.
Thanks. I'm probably better at welding than at turning.For the first hollowing system I had, I welded up the D handle and made the backrest from a bracket I got from harbor freight. I bought one of those outfeed stands that you put behind your planer so the wood rolls on it. I made a top frame to capture the D handle. It's basically identical to the Jamison style system. They work really well. I bought the Jumbo version made by Brian McEnvoy years ago. Found it cheap from a turner who was selling his stuff. The backrest is free standing on the floor with adjustable height and the roller is probably 32" wide. The D bar is six foot long and probably weighs 50lbs. I just hollowed something on the weekend that was 18" deep.
Those capture systems work really well.
If you are not handy at welding etc take a closer work at the Jamison systems. He makes some great products.
I'd love to see a photo of your system.For the first hollowing system I had, I welded up the D handle and made the backrest from a bracket I got from harbor freight. I bought one of those outfeed stands that you put behind your planer so the wood rolls on it. I made a top frame to capture the D handle. It's basically identical to the Jamison style system. They work really well. I bought the Jumbo version made by Brian McEnvoy years ago. Found it cheap from a turner who was selling his stuff. The backrest is free standing on the floor with adjustable height and the roller is probably 32" wide. The D bar is six foot long and probably weighs 50lbs. I just hollowed something on the weekend that was 18" deep.
Those capture systems work really well.
If you are not handy at welding etc take a closer work at the Jamison systems. He makes some great products.
Hi Don,