Homier 7x12 tooling?

[Fast01]

I've got a Homier 7x12 lathe that I just got set up to run. I have a set of
5/16" turning tools and they are way too small. The locking screws on the toolpost barely catch the edge of the tool. Should I be using 3/8" or 1/2" tools? I was under the impression that the mini lathes used the 5/16" tooling. I measured the toolpost and the area for the tool is actually over 1/2". What should I be using? Sorry for the newbie (non-cnc) question, but I'm just starting out here.

[Twmaster]

That Homier machine is a common Sieg. Unless somebody changed the tool post 5/16 tooling is the size generally used. If the stock TP it almost sounds like somebody did not make it correctly (think wonderful Chinese Quality Control here).

Can you post a photo?

[Fast01]

As far as I know, it's the stock toolpost. I'll try to get a pic up tonight. Thanks!

[Fast01]

Here's a couple of pics of the tool post and the area contacted on the tool. You can see where the marks where the set screws made contact. Looks like I should be using at least 3/8" tooling. What do you all think?

[tpworks]

I have a speedway (sieg) 7x12 use 3/8" tooling and still have to shim it up to get to center.
The only way I could use smaller tooling is to make an adapter to reach center in height. Also use a spacer block on the opposite side for equal pressure, if you don't it distorts the holder.

[Fast01]

Thanks for the input! I guess 3/8" it is. I wonder if 1/2" tooling would be too big? I Have a few more adjustments to make to the head and tailstock then I'm gonna try a 1/2" tool from my Shoptask, which is still sitting on the floor of the garage as it was recieved from the freight company. I can't get that one set up until I can walk again unaided. Having a shattered femur sucks!

[tpworks]

!/2" will put you too high above center.
if you notice the size of the shim that I used it's only .067 thick I think it 15 ga. sheet metal and that put me dead center. When I face off the end it gets it all.

[Fast01]

How about that? I actually didn't really take note of the shim thickness until you pointed it out. Thanks for the input, it gives me a good reference to go by. I hate wasting money on the wrong stuff though. I guess I'll have to make up some spacers.

[Fast01]

Alright, I got some 3/8" tools and now I'm about .125" above center. Now I'm confused. I guess it's possible that the tool post was made wrong. Does any one think a QCTP will put me back on center (or below) with the 3/8" tools? I guess I could try to take a cut off the bottom of the tool or the tool post itself if changing the tool post won't work.