Replies

1. 
   jako17 | Dec 08, 2005 06:47am | #1

   Layout the angles you need on paper using chord lengths or a compass(better yet a cad program),spraymount to a ply disc ,drill holes on circumference for a register pin. Then if your mandrel has out board end secure it on there (if not mount it to the backregister secured by the chuck) .Next cobble up a register pin on a plywood arm to lock the mandrel

2. 
   DennisS | Dec 08, 2005 07:16am | #2

   Drew -

   At the last two meetings of our turner's club we've had demonstrations of turning flutes and such. Both the demonstrators used home made indexing wheels that consisted of little more than a masonite disk with eqaually spaced holes around the circumference on several concentric circles. As the other reply pointed out, if you have a CAD program or know someone who does that can lay out the holes, all the better. Then drill out the center to fit your lathe spindle. Mount the indexing wheel behind a face place or your chuck so it's good and secure, then rig up something simple you can mount to the lathe bed with a pin to register the various degrees you need.

3. 
   SpecialK | Dec 08, 2005 03:38pm | #3

   You guys are great!

   Thanks.

   Happy Holidays,

   Drew

1. 
   jako17 | Dec 08, 2005 07:15pm | #4

   Aaw shucks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

4. 
   TomHigby | Jun 23, 2006 03:17am | #5

   My lathe, a 400# Yates American, had no indexing head, so I made one.  I cut a plywood disc about 12" in diameter, and very carefully laid out points to bore holes.  I decided on 48 holes, as that number can be divided by  2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16.  The disc can be screwed to a face plate, lwhich also has a hole, so the morse tapered drive center can be used.  I fitted a block  between the bed rails with a sliding  door-bolt to engage the holes in the wood disc.  This was simple and it works.

   I hope that my description, very clear to me, is understandable to the reader.

   Tom