Having given up my 30 year old Rockwell lathe and using my new Jet 1642 lathe (1-1/4"x8) I have realized that some my inexpensive faceplates have an awful lot of run-out. Interesting that I didn't notice it on the old guy. Where can I buy reasonably priced faceplates 2"-4". All of the catalogs have several and some are $50 and up. If I must pay that much I will but prefer not to.
Also my barracuda chuck is adequate but want to add one new chuck so I do not have to change over so often. There are so many to choose from that I cant decide. Are the more expensive ones better?
Thanks in advance,
Rob
re:
Hello........
Are you talking about screw center faceplates, or screws around a circular pattern on the faceplate? When you say "runout", are you talking about the screw, or screws not revolving concentric to the spindle threads? This may, or may not be problematic, because the block of wood you are turning will revolve true to the spindle, regardless if the screw, or screws aren't perfectly concentric. It could be a problem locating and matching the real center to the screws on the set-up, though........ If it were me, I'd probably ditch them too, and get some faceplates that run true.
I've heard good things about the aluminum faceplates, but mine are all steel screw center, and cast iron (?) Oneway standard faceplates. I seldom use the latter, except for my biggest and heaviest blocks of wood. For most turning, the screw center faceplates are quick, convenient, and accurately mounted to perfect center very easily........just a 1/4" pilot hole, which is very easy to locate perfectly on your wood block. Initial mount to the top of the bowl, turn outside and tenon......then switch to chucks to turn out the interior........
I have had Nova and Vicmarc chucks in the past, but they are now sold since I've converted to three Oneway Stronghold chucks. Nothing wrong with the Nova and Vicmarc chucks, but the Stronghold chucks have become my preference.......and after several years of neglect, I sold the Nova and the two Vicmarcs I had......
I use a tenon which is partially cut away on the final profile, and those serrated jaws used on the Stronghold chucks grip really strong.........I like that!
Faceplates and chucks will last a lifetime, so I'd forget about the initial cost and get the best......this is something I don't regret, and I'm sure you won't either.......
Generally, as a rule, you get what you pay for......but, I've also heard some good comments about the cheap "knock offs".........
What exactly is "the best" in faceplates and chucks is a widely disputed conclusion amongst woodturners.......but, I can say that the Oneway faceplates, Craft Supplies USA steel screw center faceplates, Nova chuck, Vicmarc chuck, and Oneway Stronghold chucks are all very highly regarded by me.
Any of the major woodturning suppliers are likely to have quality faceplates and chucks.......It's the tool wholesalers where you will likely find questionable quality, but not a given in all cases.......
Good luck.......
ooc
