Problem with my Conover Lathe

[Marc Himes]

I have recently started turning. My father, who passsed away in 1999, left me his lathe which he had for about ten years. It seems to be leaking grease from the head stock. I don't hear any unsual noises and the lathe seemes to run well. It does get warm to the touch with steady use. The lathe was made by the Conover Woodcraft division of Byrom International Corporation in Chardon, Ohio. I have not been able to find the current address or phone number for this company nor have I been able to find them on the web. Do any of you know if the company still exists and if so how can I get in touch with them? I tried to take the lathe apart but was unable to do so.

Thanks for your consideration;

 

[Jake Debski]

Marc, the Conover Company is no longer. Post on the different woodturning web sites and I'm sure somone will have an instruction manual that you can arrange to get a copy of.

 

[bob elliott]

try contacting Ernie Conover

As far as I know, Ernie and his father developed the lathe and sold it to the company that went out of business.

http://www.conoverworkshops.com/index.htm

 

[Marc Himes]

Thanks Bob and Jake. I will try to contact Ernie Conover. It is great to have this forum as a resource. Thanks again.

 

[David Propst]

Easy Problem To Fix

Hi, I used to own a Conover and sold it to a good friend to buy my Poolewood. It is a great lathe and maintenance is very easy.

The problem you are having is probably due to the bearing seals being worn out. When I bought mine it had been used 10 years and I replaced the seals and bearings. I disassembled the headstock and took the bearings to a local automotive supply store and they were able to order what I needed with no problem. I think the front and rear bearings and seals are different, so take both.

I used to have a PDF file of the Conover manual, but cannot find it, however, I don't think you need it for this problem.

If my friend ever wants to sell the Conover I want it back. It is a cool a machine.

David