Large Diameter Clam Shell Knurler

**Shelly142** · Nov 3, 2017, 11:22 PM

Just completed a large diameter clam shell type knurler for my quick-change tool post.
The type that is pushed against the part being knurled I believe applies excessive load on the lathe spindle bearings.
I fabricated this item to knurl the bodies of two tailstock die holders. I have a smaller version I made some time ago but it was not large enough to encompass the part being knurled.

The second and larger version is very similar to the first one except the arms are machined from 4130 steel for added strength and a hex nut was utilized instead of the knurled wheel used on the smaller version.

Large Diameter Clam Shell Knurler-knurler-side.jpg

Large Diameter Clam Shell Knurler-knurler-front.jpg

Large Diameter Clam Shell Knurler-knurler-top.jpg

Large Diameter Clam Shell Knurler-knurler-small-version.jpg

**DIYer** · Nov 4, 2017, 07:38 AM

Thanks Shelly142! We've added your Clam Shell Knurler to our Metalworking category,
as well as to your builder page: Shelly142's Homemade Tools. Your receipt:

Clam Shell Knurler by Shelly142

tags: knurling

**bvd1940** · Nov 5, 2017, 08:22 AM

Real nice work & will be very useful.

**Gary A. Wills** · Nov 5, 2017, 12:17 PM

Nice build , good job join the hobby machinist site we would love this too.

**Shelly142** · Nov 6, 2017, 12:49 AM

Gary, Sounds like a good idea, which hobby machinist site would you be referring to? Thanks for the positive comment.

**Paul Jones** · Nov 6, 2017, 08:56 AM

Shelly142,

Very nice build and finishing touches with the chamfer edges and clean finishes. I like your work and use of 4130 steel. I also like your early, smaller version as well with the blueing. Looks like the hex nut on your larger version keeps the tightening wrench very clear of the lathe chuck. What is the maximum diameter this tool can knurl?

I have a smaller 2.75" max diameter version and I added an extended clamping nut and knurled ring to one of my commercial knurlers to keep the wrench clear of the spinning check. I was worried about twiting the wrench into the chuck jaws. In most cases by only tightening by hand on the larger knurled ring, I can produce enough pressure for all types of knurling work in steel and stainless steel and not have to use a wrench (http://www.homemadetools.net/forum/a...057d1446790405 ).

Thank you for the very clear photos of the details.

Regards,
Paul Jones

**Shelly142** · Nov 6, 2017, 05:22 PM

Paul,

Thanks for the positive comments. The tool presented here will only accommodate about a 3” dia. max.

Honestly, I didn’t really give much thought to the possibility of a wrench coming in contact with a 3 or 4 jawed chuck. At this time when I have had occasion to use this tool it has been in conjunction with a 5C collet chuck. But that is something to consider for obvious safety reasons. Thanks for highlighting the possible safety issue.

Phil