Hello,
I recently bought a used Smithy. I got it quite reasonably, and plan to learn machining with it. I know many have less than glowing opinions on combo mill-lathes but it will make better parts than what I had (nothing) and relieves a frustration I have had for years because I just wouldn't use a machine tool enough to justify the big bucks for new etc.
It came with a lot of stuff tooling wise, but a lot is missing as well. I need collets, apparently mt3 is uncommon enough in the bargain basement that my options are somewhat limited. Will either of these e-bay specials do the trick?
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...sPageName=WDVW http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...sPageName=WDVW
other thing I need is a live center, will this one be a good (enough) one, or am I better off spending the extra dough to get one with multiple types of points, cones etc.
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...emnumber=38574
Finally, I do have the chuck that takes the drawbar, will tapping it out with a mallet drive me crazy enougn that I should get one with the flat bit for the tailstock.
Sorry to ask such dead basic questions, but the research I can do as a newbie won't give me the eye of a machinist instantly, and I hate to waste money
If you have any other good sources for reasonably priced good tools (ha) i'd love a pointer.
take care,
Jester