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Adam Wood lathe concerns
February 4th, 2005 03:56 AM
The posters model # machine is: 351.217170
The current model # machine is: 315.217150
You may want to ask service if there is a significant different. They look identical.

The speed control is mechanical. The spring loaded follower split pulley at the top of the drive train and the warning of not adjusting the speed without the machine running are the tip offs.

If the recommended speed chart on top of the headstock is not followed there may be increased strain being placed on the motor.

The lathe can be run on 240 volts. This would cut the current draw in half.

My Shop Smith machine needs the drive train lubricated periodically. The spring loaded split follower pull needs to freely shift to make speed changes possible. The speed shifting mechanism also needs lubrication to make the speed changes smoothly.

The lathe tool rest has the same adjustment method that all wood lathes have. When the rests handle tension is released the rest can be both pulled back and forth and moved left to right. This combined with adjusting the tools rest's angle and height for the tool adjustments a turner needs.

The tool rest can be dropped 3/8 inches below the center point. The rest itself can be adjusted out a maximum of 6 3/8 inches. So, although technically the lathe may have a 15 inch diameter swing, the actual largest piece that can be turned over the ways is 12 3/4 inches. If you rotate the headstock 90 degrees and purchase the bowl turning kit, the new stated turning diameter of 20 inches can be done (on the lowest speed).

The motors may be burning out because of being over-stressed (consult speed chart on top of headstock) or insufficient voltage. You may want to consider the extra precaution of wiring the lathe for 240 volts and having it connected to a dedicated circuit by an electrician.

If you are concerned about alignment; Put the pointed centers in both the headstock and tailstock. Slide the tailstock forward until the center tips almost touch. There is some play in the heads rotating function. Loosen the rotating lever and adjust the headstock center until it is centered with the tailstock's center. Tighten the headstock rotating locking lever and ding your centers are aligned.

The flat cast iron ways are subject to rusting. Paste wax them with a non-silicone furniture type wax.

I also threaded a 1x8 nut over the lathe spindle threads to protect them from possible damage.

Annual home service is a must. The mechanism needs to be periodically cleaned and relubed. Buy the protection agreement. I'd rather be using the tool than servicing it.

If you decide to buy any 3rd part rests for the lathe. Their post diameter should be 7/8 inch.

Faceplates and chucks need 1X8 threads.

Both the spindle and tailstock holes accomodate #2 morse taper accessories.

I hope this has been of help.

I've got to get some sleep now.
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