How far from the chuck are you attempting to part off? You should be
working as close to the chuck as possible (like less than one diameter.)
One concern I have about those quick change tool posts is that they put the
tool way out to the side of the cross-slide/compound instead of centered
over the dovetails as would be Ideal (the downward force of cutting tends to
rock the cross-slide/compound to the side.) So if all else fails I guess
I am recommending turning the compound to 90 degrees from the cross slide
and backing it up for maximum engagement of the dovetails.
Some recommend parting from the rear with an upside down parting tool. On
the 7x10 you can try this from the front, you need an inverted tool holder
then just put the lathe in reverse. I made a parting tool holder for mine
and have tried it both ways but didn't see much difference (it works ok
either way.)
regards
Bob
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----- Original Message -----
From: <wdannhardt@...>
To: <7x12minilathe@...>
Sent: Wednesday, February 12, 2003 12:32 PM
Subject: [7x12minilathe] Difficulty Using a Parting Tool on my 7 x 12
I recently purchased a 7 x 12 mini lathe, and so far it has been
wonderful, I am very satisfied. I purchased a quick change tool
holder from HF, and with a modification to the compound, now have
easy tool height adjustment. The only tool I have problems with is
the cut off tool.
I am using a .062" x .5" HSS tool, cutting brass and Aluminum. I
always seem to get terrible chatter.
