Ok, so you probably saw my other thread where I got myself in trouble with the collar that got stuck on a shaft due to using the wrong adhesive... anyways, I figure I might as well introduce myself and share some pictures of my project. You'll probably see me here quite a bit asking questions as I figure things out.
I've had a love for pool for many years, and considering I'm a sucker for learning new hobbies and going down their respective rabbit holes, why not get into cue repair and hopefully cue making? My background already includes tech, hot rods, and woodworking. I will research and experiment to no end LOL. I'm already learning the shortcomings of this machine, but it's performing better than I had imagined. And as everyone on here regarding DIY machines says, you'll end up buying a dedicated machine if you get serious. I already have that plan in the works, just need to finish building a new bench in the shop and save up the cash.
Also, I must give credit to
@SSDiver2112 for the inspiration. I found his tread on here where he used a piece of extruded aluminum and some parts sourced from online retailers was proof that good results can be had. He's also been awesome at replying to my PM's during my journey and offering advice. (thanks dude!).
The 3D printed parts are a mixture of another 3D printed cue lathe project I found on youtube, a few of them were modified, and the rest my own design using Fusion360. I would say it would be 20/10/70 percent, in that order. The beam and carriage assembly is a 1500mm 4080 C-Beam used commonly for hobby CNC (IE OpenBuilds). The through hole on the headstock is 19mm, so big enough I can put the better part of a shaft through it. The powersupply, motor controller, headstock, chuck, tool post, and other hardware were mostly sourced via retailers such as Amazon or Ebay. I have not added up the cost to build this thing, decided not to do that about halfway through the project due to my wife potentially finding out (haha, J/K). But yeah, I would say in hindsight, speaking cost alone, probably should have just put this money towards a Cuesmith or something.
The control panel has forward/reverse controls, speed control, a power percentage readout, and a tachometer. It will in steps from about 35rpm to 1900 rpm via the PWM controller. I'm also able to slide the headstock back and forth and reposition the tail stock so I can use it for shaft cleaning.
Anyways, on to the photos.
Feel free to ask any questions regarding my project. I know I will be asking you all stuff as I get into more trouble and expand my skillset!
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Here's a few of the most recent tips. Not perfect, but I'm starting to get better.
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Also, as a bonus, for the sake of showing how much I love the game... Here's a pic of the kegerator I built for when I'm actually enjoying the game! (Built the collar out of maple, double walled with 2" insulation between the walls, all corners are mitered with oak splines tying it together with a little contrast to boot.
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