mini lathe double ext.

[Flyingscooter]

I was wondering if anyone here has tried this.
I'm planning on turning 55" bedposts and was wondering if anyone has ever added a lathe extension to an extension. I have a Jet mini 1014 with an extension. Any help or suggestions would be appreciated.
Thanks,
-Mark

[germdoc]

One word--runout--I think you will get major runout with that length of spindle because you will not have a rock stable platform. I'd be interested to hear what other have to say, but you magnify a little runout over that length and you're talking a lot of deflection.

[BostonBullit]

depending on the size blank and species you're going to start with I'd also be concerned with beating up too much on the motor, and possibly the bearings but they'll probably be ok. a 55" 3x3 or 4x4 blank is HEAVY and I can't imagine the motor on my mini being too happy about trying to spin it at 1250RPM

[Jim Boyd]

Heck, I'd try it! If it didn't work I would sell the extra extension on ebay. You will need a steady rest when turning a spindle that long.

[Flyingscooter]

Thanks, I was thinking about the motor, but did not think of the bearings.

[guycox]

The Rikon lathe advertises a multi-extension capability --- the unit also has a two year warranty -- give it a go. Just find a steady rest..

[Pappy]

Another way would be to turn them in 2 pieces and turn corresponding 'mortise and tenons' for the joint.

[BostonBullit]

I saw Bill Grumbine post on another forum that he's turned really long stuff by using the headstock to drive the piece and attaching a 'dead' center to the wall. on a really long turning you won't be spinning that fast so you won't need a live center......just another option

[BostonBullit]

I saw Bill Grumbine post on another forum that he's turned really long stuff by using the headstock to drive the piece and attaching a 'dead' center to the wall. on a really long turning you won't be spinning that fast so you won't need a live center......just another option