Beal collet chuck

[Displaced Canadian]

I just received my collet chuck and 5 collets to go with it. Is there anything I should know that may ease the learning curve or should I just stick it on the lathe and go nuts? I'm going to use it to hold my mandrel because I suspect there is something wrong with my taper and use it for some more custom stuff.

 

[Russianwolf]

Skippy did a tutorial or video on using one... go find it. it will keep you from making some simple mistakes.

 

[Andrew_K99]

The only thing I can add (as I am waiting on my full set of collets) is make sure you don't over tighen them as this could lead to out of round issues. The clamping range isn't huge.

Here is the link to the library article that randyrls did. http://content.penturners.org/library/tools_and_jigs/colletchuckusage.pdf

AK

 

[Russianwolf]

sorry, wasn't skippy but johnny

collet chuck use - YouTube

 

[Holz Mechaniker]

IF I were to add anything, You don't need to use the spanner wrenches to tighten up anything, It is a last resort unless your hand strength isn't what is was.

 

[Texatdurango]

One thing I have learned is DO NOT install a rod into the collet before you mount the collet in the collet holder if the rod is very close to the maximum clamping range of the collet.

What will happen is the collet could get slightly cocked in the holder and you will be out of round and won't know why! Let's say I have a rod that is .748" and am using a 3/4" collet. If the rod is slightly out of round or is tapered to the point that you have to force the rod into the collet, install the collet first THEN install the rod.

 

[Displaced Canadian]

Thanks, this will help. I find it is better to learn from other peoples adventures so you can get to the mistakes only you can make much faster. If anything comes up I'll be sure to let you know.

 

[dartman]

Use a draw bar if using it as a stand alone.

 

[Gilrock]

I say stick it on the lathe and go nuts. But if you were in that camp you wouldn't be asking the question.