I would try to drive it first before twisting it. A big, quick, sharp blow
is much better than a bunch of little hits. Also, run the lathe to heat the
headstock up and then try it if it doesn't come loose when cold.
Billh


"Al Hockenbery" wrote in message
...
Bill,
Remove the drive center by turning it. They can be impossible to
knock out and that much beating may mushroom the end of the center,
damage
bearings, crack castings etc.

If it is a square spur dive you can find end wrench, adjustable wrench,
pipe
wrench etc to turn it. As a last resort a large vice grip will work. Lock
the spindle or put a wrench on the spindle nut and wedge the other end of
this wrench against the lathe bed or the center of the tool rest so you
can
use both hands to turn the drive center.

It will also help to Squirt WD 40 or liquid wrench where the center enters
the taper this might penetrate and help loosen it.

happy turninng,
Al





"Bill" wrote in message
m...
I'm purchasing an older Powermatic 90 wood lathe for 450$ in Dayton
Ohio this winter. I found it by asking a local cabinet maker about
older, american made lathes. It runs but is missing some parts and the
way its running concerns me a little. It isn't as quiet as I would
think it is capable of...anyone out there replace the bearings on one
of these? Also, the drive center may be seized in the #2 MT spindle.
Could pounding it out with a long peice of drill rod inflict any
damage ? Or do you remove the drive center another way. There are
other problems such as some missing parts but overall this lathe is
intact. The parts that it needs are mostly the things you purchase
separately anyway such as faceplates, live center set, outboard
faceplate. I would like to install the original style on-off switch,
there is none right now. Can any woodturners out there give me some
advice on how to proceed with the restoration?