odie
TOTW Team
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- Dec 22, 2006
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When I first converted my Woodfast lathe to variable speed, I purchased the 1 1/2hp Leeson motor and Minarik speed controller from CSUSA. After using this unit extensively for the past five years, I feel comfortable with the quality and performance.
However, I do see one distinct disadvantage to the tiny little toggle switch used for shut down with brake. In an emergency shut down, (something all of us turners NEED to consider) that little toggle switch is a possible safety hazard.
Most of us here are pretty handy with shop tools, so to nip that little problem in the bud, making a pivoting platform on the top of the controller was a pretty easy thing to do. I covered this stop platform with a piece of rubber foam......makes it even better!
To date, I haven't had an emergency shut down, but I've noticed I've developed a "subconscious memory" for the location of the stop switch. I seldom, if ever, actually look at the switch anymore during a shut down.......I just reach down with my hand and shut down the lathe. I see this as a very very good thing, because if I do ever have a need for an emergency stop, looking away from the problem, in itself, could be another problem.
Since I decided to mount my controller on the right end of the lathe, there is one specific circumstance when it's inconvenient. When parting a finish bowl from the waste block, I need to use one hand to steady the nearly separated bowl while shutting down. This platform switch is very easy tripped by reaching over with the parting tool and giving it a tap with the tool.
Anyway, just thought this might help anyone out who has purchased this conversion unit for variable speed.......
ooc
However, I do see one distinct disadvantage to the tiny little toggle switch used for shut down with brake. In an emergency shut down, (something all of us turners NEED to consider) that little toggle switch is a possible safety hazard.
Most of us here are pretty handy with shop tools, so to nip that little problem in the bud, making a pivoting platform on the top of the controller was a pretty easy thing to do. I covered this stop platform with a piece of rubber foam......makes it even better!
To date, I haven't had an emergency shut down, but I've noticed I've developed a "subconscious memory" for the location of the stop switch. I seldom, if ever, actually look at the switch anymore during a shut down.......I just reach down with my hand and shut down the lathe. I see this as a very very good thing, because if I do ever have a need for an emergency stop, looking away from the problem, in itself, could be another problem.
Since I decided to mount my controller on the right end of the lathe, there is one specific circumstance when it's inconvenient. When parting a finish bowl from the waste block, I need to use one hand to steady the nearly separated bowl while shutting down. This platform switch is very easy tripped by reaching over with the parting tool and giving it a tap with the tool.
Anyway, just thought this might help anyone out who has purchased this conversion unit for variable speed.......
ooc
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