Powermatic 90 lathe is here, some ideas:
A neighbor with a lawn mower trailer helped me get a vintage Powermatic 90 lathe to my home from the Dayton, OH cabinet shop where I purchased it for $450. It sits on 2 carpeted mover’s dollies that for the time being serve as a makeshift mobile base. I started practicing spindle turning with it up on these dollies and the center of the spindle is like 42 inches from the floor. I’m really excited about this tool and its potential but where to proceed next has been more of a process of discovery. I took an 8 hour introduction to spindle turning class last weekend and it really got me started. I was able to see first hand the way that a top quality spindle gouge with the correct grind allows the proper bevel rubbing cuts on coves and beads. I now am in the market for one of these nice spindle gouges. Oneway sells an interesting product: 2 sided tools that fit into a metal handle and is held in place with a setscrew. They’re something like 90$ but probably worth it as you can grind 2 bevels in one session and reverse the tool if one bevel goes dull. When I tried my shopsmith spindle gouge on my powermatic lathe I am getting tearout about half the time (especially when I try beads and rounded details. I was surprised about the durability of the Powermatic. Even sitting on carpet dollies I’m able to turn a spindle fine. I don’t even have a live center yet, just using a dead center with beeswax on it…Sorry for rambling, there is no question just sharing part of a “process”.
Replies
Sprocket.....Glad you are having fun with your new/old Powermatic! My 2 cents worth on the reversible tool, I would rather buy 2 Sorby or your choice of different sizes and then you have the option of the 2 different sizes and if you need to go to the other size it's there & ready, you don't have to monkey with set screws and flip stuff around to continue working. A good slow speed 8"or 6" grinder next to the lathe is a must, you don't have to flip tools that way just re-sharpen and go!
If you took a workshop, good for you! nothing like learning the right way to start with. If that person did not tell you there is a good chance there is an AAW chapter in your area. http://www.woodturner.org/ you can find a local chapter and learn a lot from the group. I also use this site for just about all of my turning needs since the mid 80's Good folks... http://www.woodturnerscatalog.com/
Have fun...be safe....Marsh
Sprocket,
Congrats on the new lathe! Old top of the line equipment is great isn't it? Bigtime bang for the buck. Enjoy,
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