??? for plug turners...

[Keeper Seeker]

Is there any particular size or type of wood lathe that you would recomend for turning plugs? I am a long time carpenter and know the difference that having the right tool for the job can make, but this will be new to me and would appreciate some advice from those with experience.

[ 02-26-2006, 08:33 PM: Message edited by: Keeper Seeker ]

[Bay Stalker]

I got everything from www.Amazon.com, (http://www.Amazon.com,) they had the best prices.

Jet 708351VS/JML-1014VS Variable Speed Mini Lathe
http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0000C6DYM.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg
1/2 HP 110v motor
Variable speeds 500 to 3900 RPM
Swing over bed 10?
Distance between centers 14"
Headstock: 1" x 8 tpi, #2 MT 40" w/bed extension
Tailstock : Live center, #2 MT
3/8" Hole through spindle
Size: 28-1/8" x 10-1/4" x 14-1/8"
Weight: 69 lbs.
includes 5" toolrest, 3" faceplate and spur center Both styles can accept a bed extension!

Jet 708355 Bed Extension for JML-1014
http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B000063XIC.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg
Extends the JET Mini-Lathe spindle capacity to 40"
Heavy-duty cast-iron construction
Powder coated JET white

Drill Chuck 1/2" Drill Chuck #2MT
http://www.pennstateind.com/graphics/tm-21.jpg

Vega
http://www.pennstateind.com/graphics/vmidup.jpg
Duplicates original workpieces up to 2" diameter and 10" long. Accepts flat templates up to 1/8" thick.
? Large bi-directional handwheel has smooth chain driven performance.
? Includes 5/16" HSS cutter
? Spring loaded follower tension. Fine micro follower adjustment.
? Mounts to Jet, Delta and Carbatec mini lathes, swings 6" to 10".

AS for your turning tools don't skimp. You only need three tools to get started.

Robert Sorby H0496 3/4" Roughing-Out Gouge
http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/B0000DD14L.01-A3TQ3OIW6NTQKL._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg

Robert Sorby H0498 1" Skew Chisel
http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0000DD14N.01-A3TQ3OIW6NTQKL._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg

Robert Sorby H0502 Parting Tool - Diamond
http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0000DD14R.01-A3TQ3OIW6NTQKL._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg

[ 02-26-2006, 08:49 PM: Message edited by: Bay Stalker ]

[jumpingjoe]

Keeper,I've been a cabinetmaker since '89 and used a lot of different lathes.I like the set-up Bay Stalker has ,jet makes a good product.The 1/2 horse power motor is plenty to turn plugs.You might want to check out grizzley tools web site, they make some good equipment at a reasonable price.The truth is you don't need an expensive lathe to turn plugs.I generally like lathes that are made of cast iron,their heavier and therfore have less vibration giving you a smoother cut while turning.The Sorby tools are nice too,good quality steel will hold an edge longer and you won't have to sharpen them as often,which is important.Sharper tools and less vibration= smoother turning=less sanding.

[Keeper Seeker]

Thanks for the replys gents.
Bay Stalker, Do you use the lathe to bore the plugs also? Is this the reason for the chuck accessory?

[Bay Stalker]

Originally posted by Keeper Seeker:
Thanks for the replys gents.
Bay Stalker, Do you use the lathe to bore the plugs also? Is this the reason for the chuck accessory? Yes, I do the through drilling on the lather. For the rest of the holes, belly and eyes you will need a drill press or you can do it with a hand drill.

[Flukinuki]

I agree with the above posts regarding getting quality equipment, it will add to the enjoyment. Right now Im turning on a junk althe and it extremely frustrating. Quality turning tools are important, they stay sharp longer which is SAFER. You have more of a chance of getting hurt with dull tools, ask me how I know smile.gif

Vinces' set up is common among plug builders but there are other small lathes on the market, just dont get one designed for turning pens. The TurncrafterPro is also a lathe that alot of guys like.

The one thing I would say you could do without is the bed extension, unless your planning to turn spindles or table/chair legs. The standard lathe has enough space between teh centers to do any plug you would want and the duplicator only copies up to 10 inches anyway. If you decide your going to make money turning other stuff besides plugs I would suggest a larger duplicator.

[jumpingjoe]

Keeper,I just wanted to add one more thing.You want to get yourself a couple of sharpening stones as well.I like the Japenese water stones.You'll need a flat stone and a concave/convex stone for gouges.I usually give my chisels a quick sharpening after turning every plug....and don't forget a full face shield as well.

[chlstn]

All the tooling that Bay Stalker listed is first rate, I have the same exact set up.
However!! The most important items is a well thought out plug shop are a respirator and a full face shield!! Do yourself a favor and get them right up front!
Nothing worse than a plug blank blowing up in your face!! or a drill catching the blank, bending, breaking and the drill looaded blank hitting you in the face!
No lecture just good thinking!!
Thanks for listening.

[BIG DONS PLUGS]

It is possible to build a wooden trough beneath the lathe. This can then be filled with a heavy material such as sand, shotgun pellets, anything heavy that won't bounce around. This really cuts down on vibration. Also if you plan to turn something other than plugs to sell(spindles, ballasters) remember there are lathes out there that can turn 800 pieces an hour, hard to compete with that. However, by the same token, if someone has a prized chair with one broken spindle they may not want to buy 800 new ones, so they come to you. Big Don. Also, I will be at the Berkeley and Asbury shows. Thanks, Don

[the greek]

I have the Turncrafter Pro, this is my second lathe and I would reccommend it highly to anyone. I use it to turn and thru drill. Penn State Industries is also very good to deal with and close by if thats an issue.

[Keeper Seeker]

Thank you all mucho for you advice.

Baystalker, the tips in your email will be very helpful. You are too kind. Don't be surprised when I come calling. smile.gif I have been following your progress over the winter. Very nice work.

Don, I notice in the pic of the JET that it sits on rubber feet. Your suggestion of sitting it in a bed of sand or other similar material is interresting. Would that provide even more stability than if it was fixed to a stand or workbench? Perhaps through bolted with some rubber washers?

The other safety tips are excelent and pionts well taken. Over 30 years working with power tools of all sorts and I still have my eyesight and all of my digets. smile.gif And I plan on keeping them. Not that I havn't had some close calls. :eek: Knock wood...

[ 02-27-2006, 10:55 PM: Message edited by: Keeper Seeker ]