Hi all,
Here is a sketch of what I need to make (> 20 pieces).
The unit will be used for gauges for my, and a friend's
car.
This will be my *excuse* for purchasing a lathe, and other
appropriate tools. Wondering if someone can assist my
letting me know if I'm on the right track.
The Plan:
=========
BEZEL: Only aesthetic part. I'm using 2.25" ID, 1.75" ID
for the ring, as I can get tubing with these dimensions from
places like McMaster. I'd need to cut thin slices (about
3/8" thick) from the tube to make a ring, then use a lathe
to cut back a part of the inside to ~ 2" ID.
BODY: I'll use 2" OD, 1.9" ID tubing here, cut to a length
of approx 2". Only lathe work here is the threads. I can
make the tabs by using a fiberglass cutoff-wheel or other
saw.
BACK COVER: I'll use sheet-metal for this, but not sure
what's the best process to cut clean consistent circles.
My Questions:
=============
- Is the cut on the inside of the bezel easy with a lathe?
I'm still not sure if the cutting tools will get in there
easily.
- Are internal threads easy to cut with a lathe?
- Can I do the bezel w/o damage or marks to the outside
surface?
- What's a good way to cut thin, clean slices of the rings?
I'd like to avoid manual polishing/cleaning as much as
possible. Is there some way I can cut it on a lathe so
any marks are circular (so it looks more like a pattern)?
- Alternate option is to not use threads, and instead let
the body slide snugly into the bezel. Then I'd use a
small set-screw going vertically from the bottom of the
bezel to hold the body on.
- Any easier way to attach the cover to the body? I don't
mind welding (to avoid cutting the tabs), but not sure
how to do this w/o a tig welder, and that's way to
expensive for me now.
I'm trying to make this a science rather than an art, so
I get consistent repeatable results. So I don't mind
making jigs where necessary. Any other info towards these
goals is much appreciated.
Thanks much,
-Neil.
