How to Operate a Craftsman Metal Lathe

Craftsman metal lathes are designed to help cut, machine or notch metals like brass, iron or steel. A metal lathe holds the piece of metal in place while the spindle turns at a fast rate. Bits on the machine then cut the metal according to settings on the lathe. Craftsman metal lathes are designed primarily for home use and have motors that can operate at 660 to 4,000 rpm. Operating the Craftsman lathe should be done only by adults familiar with operating large power machinery and cutting heavy items such as metal.

Pen or pencil
Wood block
Measuring tape

Instructions

- 1
  Locate the “On/Off” switch on the lathe on the front of the headstock, which is on the left side of the lathe. Pull the switch down to ensure the lathe is turned “Off,” and then disconnect the power cord.
- 2
  Pull open the headstock cover on the left side of the lathe and turn the locking handle to the bottom right of the headstock cover to loosen. Lift up on the motor mounting plate lever, which is just under the locking handle, to release the tension on the belt.
- 3
  Move the drive belt to the desired position. Position A1 is 650 rpm, B2 is 1,000 rpm, C3 is 1,600 rpm, D4 is 2,100 rpm, E5 is 3,000 rpm, and F6 is 4,000 rpm. Generally speaking, a piece less than 1 inch in size and a length up to 12 inches should be roughed at 1,000 rpm, finished at 1,600 rpm and sanded at 4,000 rpm. A piece between 1 and 3 inches in size with a length up to 12 inches should be roughed at 1,600 rpm, finished at 4,000 rpm and sanded at 4,000 rpm.
- 4
  Move the motor mounting plate lever back down to tighten the belt, and then secure the plate by turning the locking handle clockwise. Replace the headstock cover.
- 5
  Draw diagonal lines on each end of the cutting piece, and place the bearing center on one end and the spur center on the other end. Place the spur center into the headstock (left side) and the bearing center on the tailstock (right side), and tap carefully with a piece of wood. Lock the tailstock by turning the lock lever in a clockwise motion.
- 6
  Loosen the locking lever to position the tool rest to approximately 1/16 inch from the corners of the cutting piece and 1/8 inch above the center line of the piece. Tighten the locking lever.
- 7
  Turn the handwheel until the cutting piece is firmly held in the center of the lathe. Rotate the cutting piece by hand so that the corners do not hit the tool rest.
- 8
  Reconnect the power cord. Adjust the “On/Off” switch by pulling up to turn on the machine. Use the hand wheel to rotate the cutting piece slowly as needed, and then turn the switch “Off” when finished.

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