First threading attempt

[Butch Bradshaw]

Maybe. When I screw-up its usually because I've ignored one of the 'basics'.

That's where i'm at right now, trying to learn the basics...Thanks again.

 

[dskogman]

You might want to try some mild carbon steel to start on. The prop shafts I have cut on are some tuff stainless.

 

[Papa Charlie]

I just noticed that you are using a quick change with a 1/2" tool capacity. Try reducing the cut amount to see is you get a better cut. You could be getting flex of the tool shaft.

 

[Jayson]

https://www.edgetechnologyproducts.com/pro-lathe-gage/
This tool has made my life so easy when setting up tools on the tool post. I used to use the ruler trick or the paper trick to see if I was on center, not any more.

 

[shortgrass]

Make a facing cut. Use the 'nub' for center. Save $25 + shipping.

 

[Jayson]

Shortgrass, I found this method to be faster and more accurate. I use it for setting all of my tools, facing, boring, threading, part off blade etc.I have 20 tool holders and set them all up in aprox 45 minutes. I personally would never go back to the old method. My 2 cents

 

[GenePoole]

My lathe bed is straight and true, but probably not perfectly level.

 

[shortgrass]

Shortgrass, I found this method to be faster and more accurate. I use it for setting all of my tools, facing, boring, threading, part off blade etc.I have 20 tool holders and set them all up in aprox 45 minutes. I personally would never go back to the old method. My 2 cents

To each his own, I guess! K.I.S.S. Keep it simple stupid. The man is trying to learn the 'basics'. The basics don't require a bunch of fancy tools, just some good old common sense, which isn't so common anymore.

 

[Lucky Shooter]

Use whatever method you have to set tool tip height.

If any doubt, gauarante it to be low.

Barrel stubs don't leave nubs.

A. Weldy

 

[tobnpr]

https://www.edgetechnologyproducts.com/pro-lathe-gage/
This tool has made my life so easy when setting up tools on the tool post. I used to use the ruler trick or the paper trick to see if I was on center, not any more.

Ditto. Never looked back since I bought it. My lathes happen to be dead-nuts level front to back, but even if it wasn't with the very short 1-1/2" span of the gage from center to tool tip the lathe would have to be sitting on a hill for it to matter. Well worth the few bucks to me. Edge has some other useful goodies like their vise tramming tools...

 

[jrm850]

Another way is a 6” ruler pinched lightly between the work and cutter tip and ensure is perfectly vertical to have the tool contact the center. Fellow that has been machining for many years taught me that. Quick too!

I was taught that method in school. Just be gentle with those sharp carbides.
Found this pic on the internets...

 

[AckleymanII]

Carmex Carbide threading inserts are simply fantastic, they cut slick at slow speeds! Some grades are made specifically for 400 series stainless and slow speeds.

 

[Dusty Stevens]

Carmex Carbide threading inserts are simply fantastic, they cut slick at slow speeds! Some grades are made specifically for 400 series stainless and slow speeds.

Carmex is all i use for threading.

 

[AckleymanII]

Unbelievable how long those Carmex inserts last!

 

[jrm850]

Carmex Carbide threading inserts are simply fantastic, they cut slick at slow speeds! Some grades are made specifically for 400 series stainless and slow speeds.

Which grade do you use for the low speed stainless? The BXC?

 

[AckleymanII]

yes!

 

[jrm850]

yes!

Thank you. I'm going to give them a try.

 

[shortgrass]

Barrel stubs don't leave nubs.

A. Weldy

You can't use that gadget that EdgeTech makes with a barrel in the chuck, either.

 

[Butch Bradshaw]

Had a chance to play a little more today. Thought?

 

[Walt Krafft]

Practice makes perfect. Looks much better.