Question on reverse speed lathes

[BackyardSmokin]

Hi All,

I am currently using one of my mother in laws Rikon lathes so my wife may let me get my own lathe this Christmas (among other toys).

based on how I stand comfortably, I have trouble when I am working near the head and I need to pull the tools towards the head. If I were to get a reversible lathe (such as the Delta) can I reverse my speed and work from the back side of the lathe to get over this hurdle?

Thanks in advanced.

 

[Curly]

You can as long as you can ensure whatever chuck or faceplate you are turning with has a set screw to keep it from unthreading and flying off the lathe. Turning between centers would be no problem. An extra nut on a pen mandrel to keep it from loosening might be needed to keep the blanks and bushings from loosening.

 

[flyitfast]

I've turned from the other side to get to tight areas. Works fine.....
Like Curly said make sure there is a set screw in the chuck AND the chuck adapter. It will help keep the chuck from "unscrewing" and chasing you all over the shop............
Gordon

 

[BackyardSmokin]

Thank you all for confirming.