I imagine it could be done, but why replace a working system, with variable speed? Old saying, if it ain't broke, don't fix it.
Charley, thanks for your feedback. I basically understand what you're saying and how it works and will keep your idea in mind. I'll have to do some more reading.A DC motor would need a DC power supply and for it to hold speed well, a sensor/tachometer would need to measure the shaft speed of the motor and feed this signal back to the special power supply to increase the motor current as the load increased, and reduce it as the load decreased.
Thanks Tom but this won't work on the lathe I have. I have a Rockwell/Delta model 46-111, maybe 1960's. Looks like a nice conversion unit though, that would fit an Excelsior lathe.VS Conversion for Lathe Take a look at this. You would still have the belts, but variable speed within 3 speed ranges. You don't mention the lathe model, but the write-up says that it fits Delta Midi Lathe #DEL46-45 (and maybe others with a little work). Looking at this to add variable speed to my Excelsior - seems like a good deal for $170. Check YouTube, there are a couple of videos out there showing the procedure.
Roxanne I checked out this site and I think they would have what I need. If I only knew what that was.Welcome to the forum. Surplus Center is a good source for DC motors and speed controllers. DC Motors | Electric Motors | www.surpluscenter.com
That's pretty much what I've been doing. I turned new handles for all of my lathe chisels. It was such a pain to change speeds that I didn't. You just learn to adapt. But now I want to change speeds quickly so that I actually do and learn why you do. I wanna make some misteaks. And then not. I really like the lathe I have and I don't think it's beyond me to be able to do this modification.I never once changed the speed. And it worked just fine.
G'day to you as well and thanks for such a great site.G'day, and welcome to the forum.
I hope your issue is sorted out?
Hey everyone,
Thanks Alot!
Yon.
Roxanne I checked out this site and I think they would have what I need. If I only knew what that was.
Pullies not pillows. Autocorrect darnWell you are opening a can of worms. I have a nova 16 inch you have to change pilly to change speed. I also have a jet 12 vs lathe. In 20 years the parts for the jet will be impossible to get. 40 year lathes with pillows will still be running. Figure out how to install motor and pillows, get running and sell it and get a vs speed lathe. Old lathes are good sellers. If you get it running you might like it. Changing speed is simple but you will find you don't need to change speed often.
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