Tailstock mounted steady for cutting small threads by Chris Stevens

**DIYSwede** · May 29, 2020, 12:47 PM

Just a quickie share for a fast, cheap and small thread-cutting steady:

No affiliation, just impressed by this guy's simple solutions.

**Toolmaker51** · May 30, 2020, 01:05 AM

That's derived from a "box turning tool"; very common tool holder on chuckers, turret and screw machine lathes. Some run bushings, most use bearings on the work piece opposite and slightly ahead the cut.
The clever part is tail stock mounting.

**DIYSwede** · May 30, 2020, 01:48 AM

Absolutely right, TM51- there was an ongoing discussion in this thread, for anybody working on small diametres:
Small diameter turning tool with 360 degree travelling steady

IMHO: Chris Stevens YT page (116 subscribers) has a few, admirably short videos
that at least amazed me in their seemingly simple approach,
and yet again made me think "-Now, why didn't I think of THAT?"
I also think his dusted-off "Victorian" quick thread cutting tool (with a mere 160-ish views) deserves a bigger audience:

Besides: He's also kind to his wildlife neighbors - which isn't a bad thing either.

2 cents

**Toolmaker51** · May 30, 2020, 10:31 AM

A clapper box [ala shaper tool holding] is a great expedient to single point threading - provided lathe in use has quick reverse spindle arrangements. Common for lathes focused on Imperial Threads, with additional Metric gearing. Most Metric threading requires the leadscrew remain engaged.
When that is not available, cam-retracted tool holders are the answer. There are examples posted here at HMT.net, one very good one by Thehomeengineer IIRC.

Besides more rapid threading, reduced wear on leadscrews of cross slide, or tedious compensation for backlash in reading feed dial make them worthwhile. Another unsung benefit happens when re-pointing tool bit is needed, making pickup simpler.