Tom Vensel is an expert woodworker and part of the Turning Tuesday’s group over at Codger Lodge in Lubeck West Virginia. Recently, I was able to capture his handcrafted Swing-Away Tail Stock. Although there are some other options on the market like this Nova Bed Extension Swing-Away, Tom explains his version here.
This tail stock is made in two parts. The front piece bolts (2) to the lathe and the hinged rear part swings to the left. In this case, both pieces are made from maple and Corian was used for the ways.
The Swing-Away Tail Stock was measured to fit this Nova 1624-44 Lathe.
Two suitcase type fasteners or latches are used on each side to help support the left side of the attachment .
Slide the tailstock out on the swing-away and lock it’s handle.
Then unlatch the suitcase lock and a 3 inch hinge is used to swing the tailstock around until the bottom of the attachment rests on the support board which is attached to the piece attached to the lathe.
The guys at Turning Tuesday’s are productive every week in the woodshop. So head to your shop, be creative and share it with us. You and your ideas could be shown right here on Woodcraft’s Woodworking Adventures Blog!
auf Wiedersehen…Frank