Clausing Lathe Tail Stock

[Marvin R. Harbert, PE]

I recently purchased a nice looking slightly used Clausing lathe, 12 or 13 inch to restore/ refurbish. Some time later I noticed the tail stock hold down bolt is only accessable from the back side with a really odd looking wrench. It is quite peculiar and awkward looking to me! Don't think I've ever seen one like this before. Does any one know technically why they did it that way?

[Rich Carlstedt]

Marvin
I also have a 12 " Clausing Lathe.
First, the "cam" clamps (lever goes up and down) that some lathe tailstocks have are nice to look at and are fast, but do not hold when taking heavy cuts.
The nut clamped tailstock is very much stronger, but it usually requires 2 turning moves to get about a half turn on the threads and thereby have enough clearence for the tailstock to slide on the ways.
Lathe ways are finished nicely on top , but left rough under "so the tailstock clamp has bite "....If ground smooth,you would really slide.
Anyway, Clausing put a wrench on the back with a retaining feature so the wrench would not slip off when used...a neat feature...I have to use a box wrench some previous owner relieved that feature before selling the lathe.
This means more time to slide the tailstock.
They put the wrench in the back as many modern lathes did, in order to give the lathe a more pleasing appearance.