Machinist newbie. I recently picked up a 13" SBL single tumbler quick
change. I have three q's, any replies would be greatly appreciated:

1) the thread dial indicator has swung away from the lead screw. I
noticed on my 9" sbl it does the same thing. What is the purpose of
the indicator swinging away. Is it supposed to? Should the top screw
be really snug so it is hard for it to swing away?

2) My chip tray ends at the tailstock leg. I really like the chip tray
that goes around the tailstock leg. On some pictures of the extended
chip tray, it seems the tailstock leg is cast into two pieces. Is this
right? My leg is one piece.

3) When I lock my carriage down I can still moved it away with the
carriage handwheel. The casting that locks down under the bed is there
and is intact. Should I be able to move it?

Thanks again.

Aloha, Russell

russell shigeoka wrote:
Machinist newbie. I recently picked up a 13" SBL single tumbler quick
change. I have three q's, any replies would be greatly appreciated:

1) the thread dial indicator has swung away from the lead screw. I
noticed on my 9" sbl it does the same thing. What is the purpose of
the indicator swinging away. Is it supposed to? Should the top screw
be really snug so it is hard for it to swing away?

You only need it when threading, so swinging it away saves unneccessary
wear & tear on it. Loosen, swing out, tighten enough for it to stay put.