Craft Supplies VL300 - Need it lowered

[Doug Machin]

I obtained a CSVL300 from 1990 - In the past, Craft Supplies imported the Vicmarc bed, tailstock, banjo and headstock and built their own base, motor, variable speed unit.
Got it from a local turner's widow. Turned about 100 bowls in the last year. VL300 is awesome!

Problem is, it's way too high, and there's no adjustment in the base.

Pictures attached - i can remove the 11" legs, but need to build a new base. I'm a woodworker, and don't do steel. I can handle moving the variable speed control, which is in the left leg.

Any thoughts/advice/options? If I can't figure this out, I'll likely sell this and move to a new model.

 

[Ted Pelfrey]

How about building a platform to stand on. We keep some at one club for shorter demo guys. Work great.

 

[Steve Tiedman]

(As I'm proofreading, Ted posted his message...)
You didn't mention how much lower you want it to be, but, how about building a platform up around it? If you lay 2x4 flat face on the floor, 16" on center, and secure 3/4" plywood to the lumber, you'll be 2-1/4" taller relative to the spindle. Run that platform 3' out in front of the lathe and a foot or so longer than the left and right ends (maybe 2' longer to the right end to allow turning from the right end of the bed) and you'll have a nice safe area to move around on. The paint the perimeter edge of the platform safety yellow as a visual warning to watch your step.

(Edit- extend the platform to go under the lathe the depth of the base feet, same at the right end.)

Would that raise your body position enough? Add another layer of plywood if needed.

 

[Larry Copas]

Since you said the legs are removable, just take them off and trot over to the local welding shop. I'm a hack welder and could shorten those legs with my plasma in a few minutes. Might have to add a brace or two than clean up. Wouldn't take me longer than a hour.

 

[Lyle Jamieson]

If you make new feet, make sure to add leveling feet. I prefer the platform. The first couple weeks it is a trip hazard. After that you won't know it is there.