I am going to make some bronze pivot bushings. I only know two ways to do this, turn the material down to size and cut it off chuck it in a 3 jaw and drill & ream. Or drill and ream the piece, tap it on a mandrel and turn down the outside.

Which would give the most accuracy?

Jeff Prater

Jeff, if you have a lathe, turn it to size, center drill, drill and ream, and cut it off, all without removing the stock from the chuck. This way the O.D and I.D will be concentric, which is a must for a linerlock.

Thanks Don,
I knew a toolmaker would know the answer. I see what you mean if you dont unchuck it there will be less chance for misalignment.

I have had some problems with bushings from different suppliers, they are never exactly the same diameter, and a few have had thicker walls on one side.

I have an old Sheldon 12x36 I have used it to make some spacers, its far to big for my needs and I'm going to sell it.

I am getting a little 7x10 import lathe to see if it will be accurate enough for bushings.


Thanks,
Jeff

Either of those lathes will do the job, Jeff. Just remember to start the hole with a small center drill. A regular drill point may walk off center.

You might want to reconsider selling the 12" Sheldon. Mass = rigidity. I use a 14" x 40" lathe.

I have a 7x10 and it works just fine for bronze bushings. But, that doesn't stop me from wanting a bigger lathe. If I had yours I don't believe I'd sell it to get a smaller one .....