Instructions often state, “don’t over tighten the tailstock when mounting the pen mandrel between centers.” Problem is you don’t know you’ve overtightened until it is too late and you’ve bent or bowed the mandrel shaft. Not only is it frustrating to have to buy a new mandrel, but you also lose a few days of turning in the shop. The solution is simple, a mandrel saver (under $20), supports the perimeter of the mandrel without putting lineal pressure against the end of the mandrel. The mandrel saver securely captures the tailstock end of the mandrel without applying pressure in the direction of the headstock. Problem solved! You’ll never bend a mandrel again.
Similar Posts
How to make a Cabochon inlay
Use s small piece of contrasting scrap wood, plastic or Corian™ to make a unique Cabochon insert that adds interest…
Working around blowout
No matter how careful you are or how sharp your drill bit, the bottom end of a blank being drilled…
Quit Guessing Grits
Unlike sheet abrasives, abrasive strips don’t have the grits marked on the back side, making it easy to lose track…
Make an Inexpensive Threaded Headstock
To create your own threaded headstock, mount a piece of hardwood at least 1″ thick to your metal faceplate. Turn…