Back to model engineering after 35 years

[Paul]

Hi

After 35 years I am now able to continue with my steam engine.  I have the basic framework and other parts completed for LBSC Lickham Hall (now Lifford Hall).

I have to set up my garage/workshop again with a lathe etc. Looking to purchase one soon. Not room for a milling machine so might have to go for an attachment to fit lathe (is that sensible?)

Looking at the plans i have (Reeves drawings for Lifford Hall as I lost original set), I realise how much is to complete and how much I don't know.

Like to hear from anyone who has built this engine or similar and anyone else who has advice.

Although I have plenty of experience with using lathes, I am sure there are plenty of tips out there for machining small 3^1/₂" locomotive parts.

Happy to hear form anyone with advice.

Paul

[uuu]

Many fine models have been built using just a lathe, with a vertical slide to hold parts for milling. Some loco designers assumed this arrangement, and made sure their models could be made this way.

Wilf

[Deleted]

Welcome to the forum Paul and good luck with your build...To follow Wilf's wise words, Don Young was one for doing things just using a lathe. This is certainly the case for his 'Doncaster', he even went so far as to insist those doing parts for him did so without a mill. A good example of this is the cylinders which Melvyn machined for him to show that it could be done. One thing to consider though is the extra time involved in doing this, using a mill does make life much simpler, I tip my hat to those who build with only a lathe..

Regards

Pete

[simplyloco]

Jul 6, 2018 8:18:57 GMT Paul said:

Hi

SNIP

I have to set up my garage/workshop again with a lathe etc. Looking to purchase one soon. Not room for a milling machine so might have to go for an attachment to fit lathe (is that sensible?)

SNIP
Happy to hear form anyone with advice.

Paul

Hi Paul
My workshop is compact - to say the least, and i have been using an EMCO milling attachment for many years with great success. In fact, I just threw out the old milling head and got this FB-2 head. Very sensible, as I get power feed in both axes, multi position milling head, 30" between centres, and a high precision double vee bed. Contrary to popular belief, it doesn't get in the way either...
John

WP_20180529_15_31_44_Pro by inkaboat, on Flickr

[Paul]

Hi John

Looks a nice lathe. I think my setup will follow yours somewhat.

Might have to go for Warco if I can't source a second hand machine.

Paul