My first post -- Clausing Lathe

[WGonzalez2]

I recently bought this (1950 ??) lathe, a Clausing 12 x 36. I need to get a copy of the operations/maintenance manual to resolve problem on the hydraulic speed change adjustment and lubrication.
In addition I can see that there are some vibrations that affect the finish of the cut.
Probably I should get some basic information on tool bit grinding and types of bits, since last time I used a lathe was 50 years ago.
Anyone that can point in the right direction will be appreciated.
Thanks in advance, Wilson
Not sure if the picture will show !!!
http://bbs.homeshopmachinist.net/att...1&d=1168491517

[jr45acp]

If you will look on the tail stock end, front portion of the lathe, there should be a plate with the lathe's model number. From the pic, I think I have the same lathe, a 5913. If this is the case I may be able to help you out.

[WGonzalez2]

John B: You are correct! I cannot understand how could I have missed that, but anyhow, the Model is 5914 and serial number is: 510856. Maybe that tells something about year and features.
My speed changer works, but needs adjustment since I can see it does not go (speed changer handle) from one end to the other. It is effective in only one area. It appears to me that I can adjust that with the nut/threaded stud and the end of the motor assemble (where the salve hydraulic cylinder is located). I tried some changes but did not have successful outcome.
I cannot understand the details of the mechanism, even that the essence is that a position valve (the handle on top) governs the position of the slave cylinder which in turn control the "opening" of the "V" belt and changes speed accordingly within the range.
I can live now with the speed range that I get, but my biggest concern is the lousy finish, which in my opinion is due to vibrations. May I created the problem because when I brought the lathe, since I do not have 220 Volts 3 phase, I improvised a drive by using a single-phase motor with a 3/8/ V belt that applies the power to a pulley that I screwed on the face of the plate controlled by the salve cylinder.
I did the best to center everything and respect the balance by equidistant bolting, but who knows, it may be not good enough.
I am going to order some capacitors to rig a converter from one phase to 3 phases as per standard diagrams floating around.
Maybe the picture will clarify the rigging installed. Any thoughts?
Thanks, Wilson

[jr45acp]

I'd suggest trying to get hooked up with a phase converter for starters. Also, here is some contact information for Clausing that you should find helpful:

Clausing Service Center
Ph: 574 533 0371

My last contact there was with Bill Scott and his extension was 237. His email is/was bscott@clausingsc.com

Provide them with your model and serial number and they should be able to help you out.

As for the Vari Speed, I don't have my lathe powered up yet and am a complete idiot on any adjustment procedures. If I remember correctly, someone on this board has some in depth experience with these, but can't recall who it was. You might try posting in the general forum and also on the Practical Machinist forum. Link follows:

http://practicalmachinist.com/

Hope this is of some small assistance.

[jdunmyer]

My cousin has a Clausing lathe with that hydraulic speed control and reports that it doesn't work all that well. Jeff Kranz, a regular here (maybe not in this section of the BBS) has one also, but he got tired of the noise and operation of that speed control and replaced it with a regular belt drive and a VFD on the motor. He's very happy, you might look him up and exhchange emails.

[WGonzalez2]

jdunmyer & jar45acp.... Thanks!
I will contact them.
Yesterday I reduced the speed of the "side drive" by changing to a smaller pulley and the vibration lowered a lot and got better finish.
One more questions: What is the type of grease/oil? gun utilized to lubricate the carriage and other spots? It has a ball with spring in the back, built on a small (3/8) aluminium button?
Never seen one like it and do not know whereto get it or how to make it, or what it is called.
Thanks again, Wilson

[jr45acp]

Senor Gonzalez, a donde vive en Tejas?? Tengo uno amigo en Laredo, que trabajo para La Migra!

Pardon my spanish, thought I'd practice a bit!

[WGonzalez2]

John B: Si hablo espanol. Naci en Montevideo Uruguay, en 1939 and in the US since 1969.
I live in Austin, Texas (nearby-Round Rock). This is during the winter. In April I go to Ontario in Canada where I am building a "cottage".
Where do you and your friend live?
Wilson

[jr45acp]

WGonzalez, I live in Souteast Georgia and my friend lives in Laredo, TX. Thanks for not laughing at my poor Espanol.

[jdunmyer]

Wilson,
I've always used a regular pump-type oiler to lubricate those ball fittings by pressing the nozzle against it and pumping away. You do tend to get some leakage.

Way Oil is preferred for sliding surfaces such as the carriage, don't use grease.