I had spoken briefly with Miss C. about my new aquisition. I have always wanted to build a steam engine. A real one. One that could do real work.
Problem was, I don't own a lathe nor a mill, and while I know it is theoretically possible to build said without either, I don't have the patience.
Then I got my "baby" She is a circa 1924 South bend 9" lathe. Now, the way it was explained to me (by the former owner who is a friend) back in the day when this lathe was made, many shops were still shaft / steam powered. So this has a 3 pulley belt drive.
Sometime in the 30s, they started offering an option that converted the lathe to run on electric motors. This was basically an electric washing machine motor of the day connected to another three pulley system.
That is mine. This thing is in immaculite condition, and I can't wait to start learning how to use it.
Now if any of you know how to accurately figure out when this was made, and where I can get some more chucks for it, I'd be interested.
I can't find a serial number or date any where on it.
EDIT: I did some research and found that this is a South Bend model 405 (also sometimes called the model 5). I managed to find the serial number. It is 87578 and that means it was made in or about October of 1937. So a bit newer than I thought, but... So now I know what I have, I can start the quest for parts in earnest.
What parts are you looking for on the South Bend Lathe?
Doc, that's pretty, but a bit "industrial" for the lounge. Maybe the kitchen. Tell people it is an old fashoned food prep machine. 1/2 of theme would buy it.
Have a look at this Lathe, I would want to put it in my lounge and just look at it
http://www.southbendlathe.com/products/metal-lathes/1926-lathe-rebuild
I have a mid 1940,s Winfield lathe, this was based on the early Myford Ml7 model and parts are interchangeable, it would be worth seeing if someone in your area has an ML7 and ask if you could borrow some of the parts for a reference check.
charliepipes, thanks. I had already managed to find the serial number, but this additional info helps a lot.
For South Bend parts and support for older lathes you can go to:
http://www.southbendlathe.com/older-machines/parts
I called the number prior to posting this and in speaking with them, they were quite firm in that they would have to have a part number for anything you need to order. By the way the serial number on your lathe will be on the right hand end of the lathe as you face it. Stamped either on the ways or flats.
Their is also a dedicated lathe site on Chaski. Simply Google the word Chaski Index and go thru the index until you find the Lathe tab. Lots of people to talk to.
There is/was a forum just for South Bend lathes, sorry I don't have a link.
That is definitely a well looked after Lathe, good luck finding parts and information for it regards Doc Cox