homemade metal working lathe

[pkuphaldt]

This is my version of Pat Delany's Multi Machine. see multimachine-Wikipedia. see more pictures @ "flyingkmachines.wordpress.com"

This is an example of a home made metal working lathe. It is constructed using recycled automotive parts. I have focused on keeping the cost to as near $0.00 as possible The idea I have is to make this lathe using common recycleable auto parts and be assembled with minimum tools. So far the parts used are 2 Mopar slant 6 blocks, a 3/4 ton Chevy rear axle spindle & hub, a 3 speed car transmission, a Chevy V8 head.

The multimachine is built using vehicle engine blocks combined in a LEGO-like fashion. It utilizes the cylinder bores and engine deck to provide accurate surfaces. Since cylinder bores are bored exactly parallel to each other and at exact right angles to the cylinder head surface, multimachine accuracy begins at the factory where the engine block was built. Parts will be perfectly aligned and at an exact right angle to the face (head surface) of the main engine block that serves as the base of the machine. Blocks have a multitude of tapped holes for mounting accessories. The multimachine uses a unique way of clamping the engine blocks together that is easily built, easily adjusted, and very accurate.

I am not going to put in a lot of specifics and measurements since most likely your project will become different because of different parts being used. I will post more as the project progresses.

I relinguish all liability and you will assume all liability & responcibility for any project built.

Thank you, any thoughts or advice are appreciated. Contact me @ "flying.k@juno.com

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Lathe with homemade 4 jaw chuck Lathe with factory made chuck
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[Jon]

Hi pkuphaldt - welcome to HomemadeTools.net

Very cool! I know that common multimachine design; good to see you working on it. Feel free to add a link to your site in your forum signature, so that the link will appear with each of your posts.

[Radioman]

I can’t figure the logic of the drum then the disc? Why not forgo the drum and start with the disc? Seems a like big waist of real estate.

[paulk]

I can’t figure the logic of the drum then the disc? Why not forgo the drum and start with the disc? Seems a like big waist of real estate.

The makeup of the 3/4 ton hub dictates the real estate. Using the rough brake drum as a driving surface allowed the use of a 4 groove pulley without changing motor position. The disc with homemade 4 jaw chuck has to be mounted on the hub end where the axle flange would normally bolt up. Thanks for asking. Paul

[blkadder]

I have been following the multimachine google group for a number of years, and I have always wanted to build one of these. Yours came out really well, and I know I will be watching your progress. Thanks for not only posting, but for actually building one of these excellent projects.

[Toolguy]

So - I'm guessing this is what is known as an "engine lathe"? Nice job, hope you enjoy using it!

[Radioman]

The makeup of the 3/4 ton hub dictates the real estate. Using the rough brake drum as a driving surface allowed the use of a 4 groove pulley without changing motor position. The disc with homemade 4 jaw chuck has to be mounted on the hub end where the axle flange would normally bolt up. Thanks for asking. Paul

That’s a homemade chuck? I never would have have known. That’s some nice work. Looks like a store bought unit.

[will52100]

Very cool.

[Rancher]

Another one on my long list of things to do. Just curious... Did you already have the engine blocks lying around or did you get them from a salvage yard? Wondering about how much 2 would cost? I only have V8 blocks lying about and I don't think they will work as well as a straight 6.

Great job! Looks really well-done.

[paulk]

Another one on my long list of things to do. Just curious... Did you already have the engine blocks lying around or did you get them from a salvage yard? Wondering about how much 2 would cost? I only have V8 blocks lying about and I don't think they will work as well as a straight 6.

Great job! Looks really well-done.

Thanks for all the replies, Guys. If you go to "flyingkmachines.wordpress.com, it lays out the construction in detail. This should answer many questions. As far as my parts acquisition, I'm lucky enough to have trading partners with parts collections. I've managed to keep my investment to $0.00 plus my time & welding supplies. 6 cyl blocks work best, however the project is as good as your imaginations. Given the fact that engine blocks are laid out on 90 deg. angles, V8 blocks open up new possibilities. Have fun building machines that people say, "Where did you get that idea?" Paul