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Bowl Steady Rest

S

shaf

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May 18, 2006
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I would like to add a bowl steady rest to my Jet 1642 lathe. Should I buy or build? If buy then what brand? If build does anyone have any links to a set of plans?

Thanks and Happy Fathers Day.

Shaf
 
For a bowl steady, I would say buy. (Unless you have a plasma cutter and are a good welder)

For a "regular" steady, while I would still say buy (I made two and then bought the 3rd) there are lots of plans available and it is a bit easier and more room for error.
 
On the "buy" side, I have a Oneway. But, the Spin Doctor looks great.

One the build side, I have seen several custom built steady's using plywood and skateboard wheels, no need for metal work
 
I have created dozens of bowls and have not yet needed a bowl steady. If you have a real tall bowl then it may be useful. For bowls up to 8" high you can probably skip it.
 
I've got the Oneway with both bowl and spindle. Wanted the bowl for use with long overhangs, as Jeff says, but found it's a great thing to have on larger diameter stuff and where you want to turn thin as well. Keeps you from getting into the centrifugal spread situation, which ends up with out-of-round or uneven thickness rims, even if you press a bit too much. Stabilizes against chatter on thin stuff, too.

If you do get the Oneway, get one of those ratcheting box wrenches for the bolt. Best way I've found to be able to work in and about almost any bowl configuration with minimum frustration.

I cannot fathom why they went with two over and one under on the spindle wheels, because I think most still cut above centerline on spindles, don't they?
 
I have both, the Oneway bowl steady and the Clark(spin doctor) contraptions.
I turn many translucent NIP bowls and the Oneway gets used every time since the wood is really wet when turned to about 3/16th" to 1/8".
it's cheap enough to buy it, easy to use and lets you adjust the unit.

I wouldn't want to be without it.

sascha
 
Thanks for the info. I've been looking at the Oneway and think I'll give it a try.

Shaf
 
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