Mandrel question.

[Firefyter-emt]

I know this has been asked before, I just can't find any hits on this. I am getting ready to switch over to my 1930's Delta lathe and need to buy a MT-2 mandrel. It has to be the adjustable collet style not the fixed length ones. I use Berea, CSUSA & PSI. What was the "ideal" shaft to span the 3 brands?

Thanks Guys, all that is left is to build a motor spring board & buy a belt and it will be up & running

 

[Firefyter-emt]

Bump, come awn guys.. Someone's gotta have a thought here. I also just saw underdog's post where it was mentioned that the collet mandrel (not collet chuck) was not well liked. This was new to me, is this is true I don't mind using a non-collet design. I am thinking CSUSA. I remember PSI being the smaller of the three, but was Berea a hair bigger than CSUSA?

 

[tas2181]

I use the PSI Maxi-Mandrel PKM-FLC adjustable mandrel(#2 morse taper)and haven't had any problems with it. Maybe I am 'one of the lucky ones'.
Runs true with no wobble without the tailstock in place. It can use the PSI, CSUSA and the 'A' mandrel from Berea.

 

[tas2181]

PS: I have 2 PSI mandrels and a Berea mandrel that I use - they all measure the exact same diameter of .244".

 

[alamocdc]

My first mandrel (and the one I still use more than the others) is the PSI adjustable. It has worked with all three brands.