Maybe a newb lathe operator question

The first and third pictures show a plate mounted on the head stock. Material can be turned between centers with the use of lathe dogs and this plate. There is an inspection plate on top and both ends are bolted on. Why not just pull it apart and see how it's built instead of all of this guessing? That would have been the first thing I had done the moment I got it but then I'm the type of person who takes everything apart to see how it works.

Dick

I took it apart last night. It was a solid bar from the pulley side to the point on the dead center. Sorry, shoulda updated. Originally I didnt want to tear it apart for fear I might not get it back together
 
Finally got it together

Well, my wife was gracious enough to let me play in the shop all afternoon and I got this thing put back together. I turned a log into a toothpick to ensure it worked. Maybe someday after I learn a bit more, I'll adapt it to something I can use for cues. Thanks for the input guys.

Oh and I made a liar of myself. It's only 31" between centers. P3190702.jpg

P3190703.jpg

P3190704.jpg
 
Well, my wife was gracious enough to let me play in the shop all afternoon and I got this thing put back together. I turned a log into a toothpick to ensure it worked. Maybe someday after I learn a bit more, I'll adapt it to something I can use for cues. Thanks for the input guys.

Oh and I made a liar of myself. It's only 31" between centers.

Not to worry - unbolt that tail end plate and nail on some rods to the ends
of the existing ones, and you can get as far between centers as you need.

Xlnt job on the rust removal and clean up. Care to share some details?

Wire brush, steel wool, sand blaster, radioactive isotopes???
Enquiring minds want to know.

Dale
 
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Not to worry - unbolt that tail end plate and nail on some rods to the ends
of the existing ones, and you can get as far between centers as you need.

Xlnt job on the rust removal and clean up. Care to share some details?

Wire brush, steel wool, sand blaster, radioactive isotopes???
Inquireing minds want to know.

Dale

Thanks! I took every piece apart, wire-brushed the smallish pieces on a wire wheel on a bench grinder. The large pieces I used a wire brush in an electric drill and some fine sandpaper in a palm sander. Then a coat of primer and paint on everything except the rails. If I were working by the hour, I wouldn't have made much $$
 
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