Fred wrote:
Clausing 12x37 clone will not run backwards

Today, my 1994 Clausing 12x37 clone metal lathe has stopped turning off
with the lever switch on the apron. I can switch from forward to
neutral to reverse and hear relays at the front lever switch work each
time, but it keeps running forward. If I want to stop it I have to hit
the emergency button. This is at least aggravating. But, I can get
stuff done as long as I don't need it to run backwards.

My problem right now is I'm all set up to run backwards for a threading
operation that I'm uncomfortable running forward. The lathe will only
go forward and starts right up with the apron lever in the neutral
position when the start button is pressed. It still will not start in
the forward and reverse apron lever position, as it's not supposed to.
But if it's in the apron neutral position it will start running forward
when the start button is pushed. Cycling the power off and back on does
not effect this behavior.

It has happened before and not really been a problem. And, maybe I can
let the thing cool down and get these threads cut later tonight or
tomorrow. But, I need to eventually fix the problem.

There are several multi wire relays in the panel box on the back and I
suspect one of them is the problem, or the switch in the front
controlled by the apron lever. Its a pretty complicated bunch of wiring.

Please help, I do not know how to diagnose this?

Thanks,

Fred

The lathe worked fine yesterday morning and I was able to cut my
threads. After it got warm, it again would only run in forward.


After the machine has run awhile it cannon be cut off with the apron
lever switch will only run in forward (even in the neutral or reverse
apron switch position). I can push the button on the reverse relay and
get the motor running in reverse. I know this is not the preferred method.

I found electrical schematics drawings that look like my lathe's wiring
and I have an voltage meter. How to I diagnose exactly what is going
wrong here?

I think I understand the switches, transformer and relays. And, how to
change the lathe to 220v. I do not understand what the "Heating Relay"
does.

I have posted a photograph of the electrical panel box and the schematic
drawing on my website.

http://ornamentalroseengine.com/download/lathe1.jpg
http://ornamentalroseengine.com/download/lathewire1.png

Thanks for any help.

Fred