60 position index wheel
The headstock indexing unit previously described, see here, is a fully functional indexing unit, using a worm and gear, that can be used to provide any angular rotation to an accuracy of around 0.1 degree. It can be used for dividing and graduating dials. Many times, however, a simpler indexing unit is more convenient to use. The indexer described here is fitted directly to the spindle shaft and remains in position at all times. The detent plate can be easily removed and replaced by the worm and gear indexing unit if required. The indexing disc has 60 holes and it is clamped between the spindle nut and the spindle extension. The 60 hole disc allows division by the following 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 12, 15, 20, 30 and 60.
This photo shows the indexing disc. It was made using the headstock indexing unit and the toolpost drill. It is scribed with long lines every 10 holes and shorter lines at the intermediate fifth holes. The disc clamps between the spindle nut and the spindle shaft extension. A shallow register was cut in the spindle extension to ensure that the disc was concentric with the spindle.
This photo shows the detent plate. This is shaped from 6 mm steel plate. The small piece of plate mounted by the two M3 screws is a bracket for the detent screw.
This shows the detent plate in more detail. The gap between the plate and the detent bracket can be seen. The 60 hole disc runs in this gap.
The detent screw is M4 and turned down at the tip to just fit the holes in the indexing disc. The knurled knob makes it easy to insert and turn.
The unit attaches to the headstock in exactly the same way as the headstock indexing unit. It is very easy to change between the headstock indexing unit and this simple 60 hole indexer. The headstock indexing unit is more versatile, in that any angle can be set, but this 60 hole indexer is very convenient to use for simple division.
Without the detent screw the unit does not interfere in any way with the normal running of the lathe so it can remain on the lathe, ready for action at all times. The disc covers the most common dividing ratios.
Without the detent screw the unit does not interfere in any way with the normal running of the lathe so it can remain on the lathe, ready for action at all times. The disc covers the most common dividing ratios.