I just purchased a Clausing Colchester Student 2500. Because of the
splash guard, the lathe takes up quite a bit of depth. I am trying to
determine whether there is a need for the splash guard to be as deep
as it is - considering modifying it in order to take up less space.

I don't have a taper attachment, but may get one in the future. Can
anyone tell me why the splash guard is as deep as it is and whether I
could reduce the depth some while still allowing room for a taper
attachment?

Thanks,
Scott Kelley