Holding things headstock

StrokeAnalyzer

StrokeAnalyzer

AzB Silver Member
Silver Member
What do you use to hold stuff in head stock? I have split collets and they are ok for some things, but always require a lot of tweaking to get things on center. I sometimes use painters tape, but its a bit too thin. Leather is usually too thick and soft.

Id appreciate suggestions on a flexible material thats not too soft.,

Thanks
 
If you are able to make your own split collets, you should not have too much trouble centering them on the lathe that you used to make them.

You can turn the outside diameter of the collet, then cut it to size, chuck up on it and then bore a taped hole of the size you need. Finally, use a jeweler's saw or bandsaw to split the collet twice from each end rotating to offset the cuts.

Other products like fine sandpaper can be used or you can make two wraps of the tape you are currently using but few of these "fixes" get you on center like a tapered, split collet made on your lathe.

Just my 2 cents.
 
Correct the source of the problem first; the chuck.
Why does it have too much run-out?
 
Headstock does not have run out....its the method of holding the part thats in question. Specifically its the collet I have for working on the butt joint collar, its got some run out.

Im asking what are good alternatives to a bunch of custom made delrin collets.

Ive seen some cue makers use thin plastic sheet of some type.

Thanks
 
One thing I try to always do when making a collet is to always machine it in one chucking. I machine both OD and ID then part it off. I find it is quite difficult to make accurate collets if you try and machine something on a second chucking, especially thin walled plastic parts. The chuck will almost always deform the part when you try and grab it a second time.
 
I like to use a cigarette rolling paper in my front headstock with light pressure when doing tips and ferrule work.

I use 1/16" thick silicone rubber strip in my back 3-jaw to grip the shaft or cue tight so it doesn't slide back.

I rarely use collets with this setup.
 
For repair work,I use a 1" long section of 1/2 ID clear oxygen hose in place of a collet.

It grips the shaft or ferrule without marring or slipping,easy to use,and cheap.

The 1/2 ID will work on anything under 13.25mm or so with no issues. For bigger shafts,I use another piece that is slit up one side. Tommy D.
 
Some great tips here. The idea of using plastic tape or hose are pretty unique.

I also watch the overlap when using painters tape. I like painters tape as its sticky residue is minimal, however its a bit soft and thick.Some type of plastic tape(maybe electrical tape) sounds like a good choice.

Bob
 
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