Hi. The below email was recently sent to all lathe users and is posted here for people’s info.
Dear lathe user,
We have some important updates about the metal lathes in the space. Since we started the current training programme last summer, there have been some changes to the machine and the guidance we give to users, so please read the following carefully.
1. Do not attempt to adjust the lathe! 
Over the past few weeks, the metal team has had to re-adjust the Myford lathe several times to make it both accurate and safe. It appears that somebody has been making adjustments without permission. This has happened despite repeated requests via Telegram to stop.
For the final time, we are asking you not to make any adjustments to the Myford lathe.
The following is OK:
- Changing tooling in the toolpost and tailstock
- Changing chucks and other workholding methods
- Lubricating the machine as appropriate
- Changing lathe speed via the belt
The following is not OK:
- Adjusting any grub screw on the lathe, especially those related to sliding parts
- Adjusting the lathe’s feet in any way
- Loosening any moving part so that is slides more easily
- Dismantling any part of the lathe
The team is having to spend way too much time correcting people’s mistakes.
As always, if you have any questions please reach out to us on Telegram. We have seen some fantastic work done on the Myford in the past 12 months – especially from novice users. It would be a shame if we had to place restrictions on the machine.
2. New lubricators 
We now have lever-operated lubricators instead of the older type with twisting knobs. When the lever is flat, they’re off. When it’s pointing up, they’re on. Think of it like a soldier standing to attention to turn it on. When the soldier is lying down, it’s off duty.
We remind you that these lubricators MUST BE TURNED ON before use and tuned off once you’re finished.
3. Simpler lubrication schedule 
It is now easier to lubricate the lathe. Apply one “pump” of H32 oil to each lubrication spot using the silver gun. The lubrication spots all have a red cap on them. Then apply a small amount of slideway oil from the green can to the main bedways, the cross slide, and the top slide as you have been shown. This is all included on a new poster above the lathe.
4. Belt tension 
We have fitted a new red spindle belt. When you have finished with the lathe, please push the lever away from you to slacken the belt so it does not stretch over time.
5. New signage 
All the critical points in this email have been included in new signage around the lathe. This is hopefully more concise and clear than the previous material. There should be no excuse for poor practice, since the most crucial information is written in front of you!
6. Padlock 
We have fitted locks to some of the more high-risk tools in the space, including the lathes. You will find the code on the tool page. Do not share this code with anyone – we will change it periodically. Please do not forget to replace the lock after using the machine.
7. New wrench for changing chucks 
Jim has 3D-printed a really useful wrench for holding onto the gears when changing the chuck. This means you no longer have to engage the back gear when doing so. This video (full credit to Epoch Custom for the design and video) gives a great overview of how it works.
As always, please fire any questions our way on Telegram. That’s the quickest way to get a response. The forum is also great, but runs at a slower pace.
Happy (and safe) making!
The Metalwork Team
On behalf of
Manchester Hackspace
Manchester Hackspace is a not for profit community run maker space on the edge of Ancoats, Central Manchester. Anyone is welcome to become a member and make use of the space and its wide variety of tools.
Woodwork. Metalwork. Arts. Crafts. 3D Printing. Laser Cutting. Electronics.
Wellington House, Pollard St E, Manchester M40 7FS