DAB,
It is not as big a problem as it all sounds. You will need a "real" lathe! Other than that, it all is a piece of cake. Harbor Frieght sells several torches. I use one I bought for about 40 bucks, it has one hell of a flame (close to 40"), one tank of propane and something for everyone to see.
Cut the screw to length. Heat the end(s) that you want to machine till the metal glows a Bright Orange color. Start at the end and work it up and try to keep the heat in the general area that you want to machine. You will see and actual "line" where it glows and where it stops. Maybe add about 1/2" or so past. Your screws will not likely be used at either end so removing the hardness is really not a problem (and you can wrap to stop heat going up too far on the screw,,,,,but again, not a biggie). Keep the heat source moving.
Once done, let it cool to room temp.
Give it a try! You can do it. If your lathe is "beefie", you can do this. If not, send it out.
You will either be able to cut thru "like butter" or not. You will know right away if you removed the hardness. Take several small cuts to begin with. Let the tool do what it does and don't push it. Once thru the hard surface, the rest is no different from any stock you have on hand.
Good Luck,
Glen  |