On Sep 7, 9:10 am, Randy wrote:
On Thu, 06 Sep 2007 13:48:00 -0700, Jim Wilkins
wrote:





On Sep 6, 4:36 pm, Randy wrote:
I need some help/opinions. I've been using the same set of 5c collets
I bought 20 years ago from Travers tool. Their brand, some import, I
don't remember where they were from. Anyway they are all tight on the
fit. I need to push to get .250 stock into the 1/4" collet. What
sucks is when you are working with 1/2" TGP and it gets all scratched
up going in and out of the collet.

Is this normal or is this because they were the cheap set?

I ask now because I bought a 3/4" square Lyndex collet and it's nice,
3/4 sq stock slides nicely in and out.

Thank You,
Randy

Remove 333 from email address to reply.

http://www.royalprod.com/product.cfm?catID=6&id=85

"... they are not spread after grinding,..."

My few Royal and Hardinge collets apparently -were- spread after
grinding, the Enco ones are randomly loose or tight. I stuff small
screwdrivers in the slots to open them if necessary

jw

Yea, I've used the screwdriver trick too, but it's a pain in the butt.

Maybe I need to order a few more lyndex and see if they're better.
Thank You,
Randy

I bought good collets in the common sizes and cheap or used ones in
16ths and 32nds, and for sharpening end mills on the surface grinder.
Lyndex and "Grand" are OK.
jw