Basic Headstock Alignment in the Metalworking Lathe

By: Gord Thorogood

All metalworking lathes have the facility to align the headstock to the bed in a horizontal plane. Assuming that the machine has been properly installed and the bed is not twisted or out of level, the headstock is adjusted as follows.

STEP 1. Chuck a test piece that is long enough to give an accurate reading. 24" will do the job nicely and with a diameter that will ensure rigidity 1½” - 2".

STEP 2. Using an accurate dial gauge ensure that the test piece is running on the centre line the full length of the test piece by rotating the piece and tapping it onto centre. This ensures that the test piece is aligned to the headstock only.

STEP 3. Now the centre line of the headstock is compared to the centre line of the bed by mounting a dial gauge on the carriage and running the gauge along the full length of the test piece. Record any variation on the dial reading.

STEP 4. If an adjustment is necessary you must first loosen the bolts attaching the headstock to the bed, and then determine which way you wish to move the headstock.

You will find adjusting screws front and back of the headstock which will move the headstock in any direction desired while you constantly check your dial readings.

When you have zeroed out, then tighten the headstock mounting bolts.

 

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