I ordered an AxA QCTP from LMS...

as well as there modified compound rest top...


and I guess Im having some trouble/questions on how to swap out the original for the new AxA..


1.) the original compound rest top.. has a 'spindle/hand wheel' to 'fine tune' the tool holder close/away from the chuck...

I dont see any mount holes to add this the newer compound rest from LMS.. (so I guess it doesnt get used anymore????) I was NOT aware of that..that stinks..


2.) I see I need to take the gib and the gib screws and use them on the new one... but I dont see how the new AxA holder..mounts to the new compound?

anyone got some pics of an upgrade to their 8x12 to an AxA QCTP? (the steps/process)

this is driving me NUTS! :)


thanks

The big question is WHY???
When you could have had a AXA tool post that just bolted on your 8x12 with no mods, no mucking around, no hassle from lathemaster... and it has so many good reviews. Some right here.
http://www.lathemaster.com/QUICK%20CHANGE%20TOOL%20POST%20SET.htm

Do a search of the forum you will see that cutting down the compound is not the best way. Also last year there was a mag that released DIY plans for a QCTP for the 8x12. They looked pretty good!

Me I just used the stock tool post and some shims it takes an extra minute to adjust tool height - not a big deal to me.
http://busybeetools.ca/cgi-bin/picture10?NTITEM=B1256 ordered these through a freind in Canada as they only ship in country.

ok.... well I was told that just getting the modified compound ALSO made the AxA a direct bolt on.... WITHOUT having to buy modified holders...

(again, I was told no modifications going this route as well..)

so back on track..any advice? or no?

are you saying there ARE modifications that need to be made?..and if so.. what ones are you saying need to be made?


Thanks

Do a search of the past post here also yahoo has a Lathemaster forum that has a ton of 8x12 info since they are the same machine. There were other problems mentioned as in no oiler plug etc with the replacement parts.
Me I would send it all back to LMS but that just me.
Modified tool holders are no big deal, they are a bit thinner standard ones. They can be cut in a few minutes or they are cheap from Lathemaster.

I think people buy all this stuff before they even know how to use what they have, I know I almost did.

SO your advice is to just send it all back? as in its NOT usable? (without modification?)

Thanks

SO your advice is to just send it all back? as in its NOT usable? (without modification?)

Thanks

I'm saying to do some research - from what I read here, from what I read in other places like the lathemaster forum, the cut down compound was not the best choice for my money or frustration level, or even a choice at all considering my other choices.
Its all been done before, a few hours of reading / effort can help you make your own decisions.
Like I said I know what I would do, thats send all that crud back - your choices may vary.

Its not that I didnt read. or know lathemaster had a version they offered...

I did.. hell I even emailed lathemaster.com.. and was completely ignored.. (that was a factor in who got my money as well)..

I guess my decision was also based on false or hlaf truth information as well.. I was under the impression that the LMS version was a simple 'bolt on' as well..

(with new compound rest top)....

I also thought possibly not having to order special, modified tool holders from only 1 place would be a BONUS.... and allow for purchase from anywhere..

its seems like your 'upset' that someone comes here looking for advice?

I read, and thought I was making a good decision based on the info I had received..

turns out I was wrong..and came looking for help.. simple..nothing more, nothing less.

Im not upset. Why would I be? Its you that has the problem...
Your asking me to make a decision that you need to make - I already told you what I would do twice.

Pictures of what you are trying to do would really help. I think I understand your problems, unlike Don, and will try to help.

You have to take your old compound apart and swap out the top piece with your new cut down one you bought from LMS. You need to reuse all of the old compound parts and just swap out the top piece. The compound rest bottom piece has the tapped hole for your fine adjustment nob so you will NOT loose that feature.

As for mounting the quick change tool post, it should mount with one bolt that screws into the top of the compound rest. It should have the right bolt if you bought the correct QCTP for your lathe.

Here is a picture of my old lathe with a quick change tool holder installed. The compound rest is stock, but it should still help you out.


Just let me know if you have any other questions, I would be more than happy to help.

Dale P.

Im not upset. Why would I be? Its you that has the problem...
Your asking me to make a decision that you need to make - I already told you what I would do twice.


first off... lets be clear.. I asked for advice on how to mount/use/work with what I jave..

your first and initial response.. was "WHY?"...

I didnt ask you for any decision...I asked for advice on how to mount..and pics..

you couldnt stay on topic.. so I asked why you said what I 'do have' needs to be modified.. (as I posted I was under the impression nothing did)..and what exactly needed to be modified..

I think you need to get a 'hug' or something... so far your replies/comments have been 100% negative and useless..

noone makes you hang out here...or post.. so just do yourself a favor and skip the threads that seem to anger you so much..and if you nothing to say.

Even stating to return it and get the LM version was a start..but you quickly lost that path.. :confused:

(sigh)

Pictures of what you are trying to do would really help. I think I understand your problems, unlike Don, and will try to help.

You have to take your old compound apart and swap out the top piece with your new cut down one you bought from LMS. You need to reuse all of the old compound parts and just swap out the top piece. The compound rest bottom piece has the tapped hole for your fine adjustment nob so you will NOT loose that feature.

As for mounting the quick change tool post, it should mount with one bolt that screws into the top of the compound rest. It should have the right bolt if you bought the correct QCTP for your lathe.

Here is a picture of my old lathe with a quick change tool holder installed. The compound rest is stock, but it should still help you out.


Just let me know if you have any other questions, I would be more than happy to help.

Dale P.


hey ibuildstuff4u-

thanks for the reply..

I have taken off my original top..and replaced it with the new one..but the new one does NOT have any holes/tapped/threaded for the 'fine adjustment knob' to be bolted back on/to it..

Im not sure how to get the post out of the original rest top either.... but even if I did.. I cant see how it fits together??

the QCTP is the AxA from LMS.. they said I would need a specific compound rest in order for it to mount on as an easy 'bolt-on' upgrade.. this would negate the need to have a modified post..as well as the need for modified tool holders..

I will for sure get you some pics.. (Im sure it will help)..

Thanks.. appreciate the help.

ok I couldnt wait..so I snapped a few picks real quick... (not the best but they'll do) ;)


first if the compound rest top.. there are NO holes to mount the fine tuning knob..

http://dmstudios.net/misc/lathe-setup/QCTP_noholes.jpg

next is the tool holder itself.. looking at the bottom.. the bolt it came with is 'flush' to the bottom.. so I dont see how I can mount it to the rest top they told me to buy?

http://dmstudios.net/misc/lathe-setup/QCTP_bottom.jpg

here is the rest top..just plain ol' pic..from the top..

http://dmstudios.net/misc/lathe-setup/QCTP_top.jpg

thanks

The pictures were a great help! I see your problems and have a few solutions.

First of all I would call or E-Mail LMS about the holes that are not drilled and tapped and ask if they normally come with them ready to go. I would think that they should have been drilled and tapped for you. It wouldn't be to hard to do your self, but at $35.00 for the part your shouldn't have to. Also you will need the correct METRIC tap for the project which may cost you a trip to the hardware store if you don't have one on hand.

As for mounting the QCTP there are two ways to mount it.

The easiest is to buy a longer bolt and thread it into the compound rest. Looking at the LMS web site I see they offer two different versions of the compound rest top. I'm not sure which one you bought, but one is tapped with a 10M metric thread and the other is a 9/16-18 thread. It's hard to see in your pictures, but it looks like the hole is NOT already threaded on the compound rest top that you bought? If it's not you can drill and tap it to a size that will work but only if the hole is small enough other wise you will have to use the second method to mount it.

The second method is to make a stud similar to the one on your old compound that press fits from the bottom of the compound and is threaded on the top. The threads would stick out higher than the tool post and you could add a nut on top or make a custom threaded handle so you can tighten it with out having use a wrench.

I guess in the end, if it's not threaded on the top I would call LMS first and see if this is the best part to use, or if one of the other compound rest tops that they sell would work out better.

Dale P.

I just looked at your bio and see you live in Milwaukee. What a small world, I'm in Appleton WI about 1 1/2 hour drive from each other. I have a 9X20 lathe, small manual mill, a small CNC mill, two drill presses, and a ton of tooling. You should bring your lathe over here to my shop and we can get it up and running in no time.

Dale P.

Appleton?? no way! LOL.. too funny.. who'd a 'thunk' it.. meeting on an abstract forum like this..


man..one of these days.. I might just take you up on that offer.. time is usually tight for me..with work and family... I barely get time to get my behind in the garage to 'play'...

I finally got word from LMS..

to update..and for anyone for future reference..

1.) the modified compound rest top.. DOES NOT COME with the hole drilled/tapped for the fine tuning knob..

(he said just drill and tap myself.. or I can return.. he also said to just 'give it a try'.. and if you fubar it.. he'd still take a return on it.. LOL)

I like LMS..they respond..and while replies are short..they try to help..... while LM on the other hand..still havent got a reply..

2.) the compound rest top hole IS threaded.. and the reason the main tool holder body sits flush.. is because you need to take the bottom flat square 'base' off and it will give you some threads sticking out to screw into the rest top.


like you said for the loot I paid..I shouldnt have to do anything..

while not very helpful..DonF may be right.. a return MAY actually be the best path now..

but at least I have my answers..

what kind of small mills you got? I have been looking at a x2 (Im really just ahobby guy..with a hobby budget)... but to me.. a mill.. almost NEEDS to be CNC..

to make curves,,and multiple parts that are the same.. (but again I have zero experience with machining so far... so that may not be applicable)..

I want to do some mods with my lathe first though I think..

1.) variable speed motor mod.
2.) cheap DRO or at least digi scale mounting on axis'
3.) DIY CNC it..(while still retaining manual options)

Im sure the DIY CNC kit will be several hundred alone..LOL the variable speed motor mod..is already looking to be anywhere from $150-$250 range..depending on if you can catch a good deal.

Do a search of the past post here also yahoo has a Lathemaster forum that has a ton of 8x12 info since they are the same machine. There were other problems mentioned as in no oiler plug etc with the replacement parts.
Me I would send it all back to LMS but that just me.
Modified tool holders are no big deal, they are a bit thinner standard ones. They can be cut in a few minutes or they are cheap from Lathemaster.

I think people buy all this stuff before they even know how to use what they have, I know I almost did.



like you said for the loot I paid..I shouldnt have to do anything..

while not very helpful..DonF may be right.. a return MAY actually be the best path now..
I hope you dont whine this much in person??
Serously I TOLD you were to go all you needed to do was go look.but instead you got all pissy.
Now -->

http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/lathemaster/
See Lathemaster Yahoo Group --- there are 4000 posts it takes a while to sort through them thats why I told you to go look, after all you were the one asking for help right???
This is in addition to what you can read here its what you need to read. Your not the first to have a cut down compound and reading what others have to say might help you or at least give you a few other targets to lash out at right???
I looked through them a few years ago took a few hours. I found what I needed.
The cut down compound is as old as the 8x12 - Lathemaster used to offer one but doesnt anymore. Why? It was a pain, some complained about more flex.
You can find all sorts of QCTP stuff including pictures of DIY ones. Now if telling you to go look for yourself, then make up your own mind is being mean and nasty then its your problem, not mine. People here most of the time dont have time to hold your hand, just point you in the right direction. Its up to you to do the foot work.

I hope you dont whine this much in person??
Serously I TOLD you were to go all you needed to do was go look.but instead you got all pissy.
Now -->

http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/lathemaster/
See Lathemaster Yahoo Group --- there are 4000 posts it takes a while to sort through them thats why I told you to go look, after all you were the one asking for help right???
This is in addition to what you can read here its what you need to read. Your not the first to have a cut down compound and reading what others have to say might help you or at least give you a few other targets to lash out at right???
I looked through them a few years ago took a few hours. I found what I needed.
The cut down compound is as old as the 8x12 - Lathemaster used to offer one but doesnt anymore. Why? It was a pain, some complained about more flex.
You can find all sorts of QCTP stuff including pictures of DIY ones. Now if telling you to go look for yourself, then make up your own mind is being mean and nasty then its your problem, not mine. People here most of the time dont have time to hold your hand, just point you in the right direction. Its up to you to do the foot work.


who's whining? seems like it was you because I didnt get the LM version...

or because you didnt 'think' I was read the posts on LM about the ASZ vs AxA..

I see flip flop there.. and AGAIN... the question was about working with what I HAVE...

I just dont think you read.. cause I told you I 'have' done the 'foot work'..

I have searched..I have read..

some say got A2Z because its easy & fasy.. (then some say aluminum is a con)..

some say go with AxA...but having to modify is a 'con'..

I saw NOWHERE, abotu having to drill or tap the modified rest to use the fine tuning knob's... link?

I wasnt prepared..since I was never informed.. I also didnt see anyone mention about taking the base off the AxA body so it can fit into the modified rest.. if you had done the work already .. then it shoudl have been two simple questions for you to provide help with.. period.

I posted looking for help.. not be 'insulted' and given attitude because someone didnt do things YOUR WAY.. (nuts)

Just ignore Don and he will go away. For some reason he can't figure out that you wanted to buy a system that was ready to go with out having to cut anything.

The Lathe Master tool post is the same China made tool posts that everyone else sells and would require cutting down the tool holders, which Don doesn't seem to get that you can't do since you don't have a mill yet. (Yes I know you can mill on a lathe, but once again this guy is looking for the easiest way with out having to modify anything.)

Any way, If it were my project I would drill and tap the two holes that you need for the compound cross slide and if you screw it up, take LMS up on their offer and send it back. I'm sure you will loose a little strength in the post due to the compound being cut down, but if it ever gives you trouble you can easily switch back to your old compound top and look into cutting down the tool holders. Who knows you may have a mill by then or you may not have any problems with the cut down compound and never have to change it.

As for the tool post do what LMS said and remove the bottom piece and bolt it in place. I have a piston tool post and it does not have that bottom piece. Is it bolted on or just sitting there???


I would be more than happy to help if you want to return the cut down compound and cut down your tool holders or if you want some one to drill and tap the holes in the compound for you. You could mail the parts to me, or possibly drop them off.

I work construction and will be in Oak Creak for two weeks starting July 1st. I'm not sure if that is close to where you live but if you need anything machined you could drop it off at the job site Monday threw Thursday and I would be more than happy to machine it for you when I go home for the weekend and bring it back on Monday. We are going to be staying at a hotel in the area so that could be a possible drop off spot too.

Just let me know if I can help.

Also if you give me your E-Mail address I will send you some picts of my shop. For some reason I can only post one picture here a day and any others that I try won't work

Dale P.

Hey Dale..

great offer.. I might just take you up on it..


to be fair to DonF though... LatheMaster DOES offer an AxA specific to the 8x12/14..

that comes with special tool post..'and' milled down tool holders.. same part number but with w "T" in front are the special ones..

however I had read that even with the special cut down tool holders.. some 1/2" tools still dont get low enough...

and of course you have to buy special tool holders that are pre-milled or do it yourself...


pros about the LMS version is..you can use default tool holders..and still get low enough with 1/2" tools.. (I had heard..not confirmed)

so with the LM version it is a no modify version (using stock rest top)..as it comes with new tool post and modified holders.

LMS version using new compound rest.. gets you low..can use stock AxA holders (from anywhere).. I have never read anything about the rigidity problems DonF spoke of though..

cons about the LMS version is (possible rigid problems)..and of course the new rest doesnt come pre-modified for the fine tuning knob/hand crank.. =(

I live in Oak Creek.. so it wouldnt be a problem.. where you doing construction at?

I'm a mason and we are building a Sonic Drive in restaurant. I'm not sure were it's going, or what hotel were staying in but I will find out soon. I'm guessing that Oak Creak isn't very big? I can't remember if I have ever been thew that area.

We at least have to meet for a beer!

Here is a picture of my tool holders. I have several tail stocks so I can load them up with the bits I need and swap them out instead of having to re-chuck a bit every time I need it. It saves a lot of time when doing multiple parts.

Dale P.

Yeah Oak creek is kinda small.. LOL..

not much to do...

I'll check the pm...(and respond)..

yeah definitely a drink.. what time you guys usually off the clock?

Thanks

Figured I'd update this thread...

After meeting up with ibuildstuff4u (Dale).. who was just 'awesome'.. showed me some things..explained some stuff to me..

as well as took my new compound rest I got from LMS.. and drill/tapped the holes it was missing (comes without the holes drilled/tapped)..

Not only gave me a dial indicator with a mounting bracket that mounts to the ways....

but did the modification on my rest top for FREE!.. (offer still stands if you want a few bucks... let me know..be more than happy to give some money for your time/trouble)

its was a good time.. I dont know anyone else in my area to talk 'shop' with...and ask questions..so the meeting was invaluable for me..

Dale was a super guy and very generous.. gave me some coolant..some tap magic...and the dial indicator!!


The new AxA tool post is great... being able to change tools with ease is so much better..

I will post pics of the new set up..and what Dale did for me as well tonight..

just wanted to thank Dale...and say how much it was appreciated.

Thanks

I have the 8x12 Lathe and bought the exact same compound rest from LMS as you. The reason WHY those holes are not already drilled and tapped, is because they are drilled with a hand drill at the factory, so they are different for each individual machine. LMS CAN'T drill and tap them for you, or they won't be in the right place on your setup. It says this right on the page for the compound rest.

I have drilled and tapped mine, which was much easier than expected. The metal is cast iron or something and it actually drills and taps pretty easily. I was even able to use some cheap taps from HF.

My question is that the big bolt that holds the QCTP down is too long. Did other people use washers to make up that space or am I missing something?

I have the 8x12 Lathe and bought the exact same compound rest from LMS as you. The reason WHY those holes are not already drilled and tapped, is because they are drilled with a hand drill at the factory, so they are different for each individual machine. LMS CAN'T drill and tap them for you, or they won't be in the right place on your setup. It says this right on the page for the compound rest.

I have drilled and tapped mine, which was much easier than expected. The metal is cast iron or something and it actually drills and taps pretty easily. I was even able to use some cheap taps from HF.

My question is that the big bolt that holds the QCTP down is too long. Did other people use washers to make up that space or am I missing something?

I am 100% sure that product description was updated when the nav or site itself was.

I had contacted LMS directly..and had asked about it being a direct bolt on..etc..etc..

only AFTER did Chris inform and acknowledge about the two holes....

And if this is specific to the 8x12/14 machines (HF and LM versions only..unless there are other 8x12 machines out?)

anyways.. IMHO..for that price.. it SHOULD be pre-drilled and tapped.

was reading the posts had to laugh....modifying and cnc'ing an 8x14, and X3.

the reason for the lol....i live in wausau....kudos

I can understand your frustration, particularly if the site at that time did not mention that those two holes were not drilled and tapped. All I'm saying is that it really isn't possible for LMS to drill and tap those holes for you because of the way they make the lathes at the factory. It really wasn't bad though to drill and tap the holes. I just put the rest on the lathe, aligned the two pieces and used a hand drill to mark the spots. Then I put the rest in my mini mill, drilled the holes and tapped them. It is surprisingly soft material, tapped very easily.

Hope this helps!

It is funny we are all from Wisco!

I understand/agree..

but I even talked to Chris..emails..etc and was told 'directly bolt on replacement'..

over & over....etc..

I was doing some heavy research about going the LMS route or the LM route for getting an AxA for specific for the 8x12 (as they sell/market them them)

I mean mines all done...etc (this thread was over 5 months old) LOL :)

but if one didnt have the needed tools, one couldnt do it. and being marketed (then) as a direct bolt on..no mods needed.. well sorta mis-leading. IMHO.


BUt its fine now..and people are aware.. however I think this will ultimately turn people towards the LM approach instead of the LMS one.



oh yeah.. GO CHEESEHEADS! hahaha

Yes, that would have pissed me off too. I didn't realize you had talked to Chris and he told you it was bolt on. I've got mine set up now, but the center bolt of my tool post is too long. I tried putting washers on it to make up the difference but I'm not very happy with it. Was your fit good?

he informed that I needed to drill when all was said and done..

he was very cool though (no doubt).. he said give it a try (drill & tap) and if it dont work..he'd refund it..so it was win/win I guess..lol

besides LMS was the only company that even returned my emails..LatheMaster totally ignored me.. (lost sale I guess)

I got the AxA as well as the modified compound rest specifically for the 8x12..

I think I used the stock bolt... removed the base plate from the bottom of the AxA 'block'..

threaded it in.

I was hoping things would be as rigid as the stock 'qctp' (4 holder).. but I think I am getting a little more flex now (not so much noticable until I part..which I have to do in reverse and from the bottom)..