Can I convert Mandrel bushings to ...

[Scruffy]

TBC bushing by drilling them out with a 60 degree v-drill?

Can they then be used with the appropriate centers?

 

[SerenityWoodWorks]

I have done this with great success so far, bought a 60 degree reamer bit off fleabay and it works great, now the bushings are still the hit or miss bushings but the 60 degree bevel works great.

 

[Steve Busey]

It should work fine. But the mandrel bushings I've encountered are a lot softer than most TBC bushings I have, so they may still wear out sooner that a harder TBC type, and the softness may contribute to some wobble/out-of-round situations. Just a couple things to keep in mind...

 

[JerrySambrook]

There are a few ways to take up slop between bushings and tubes. Blue tap carefull wrapped, but not overlapping. Believe it or not, some applications of sharpie ink.
As for the wobble, put the bushing by itseld between centers first and see if the bushing itself has an issue from small dia to large dia.
If not, then the wobble is either stuff in the tube, or an end that is not square to the tube id.

 

[Scruffy]

Thanks...

I really appreciate the info. Any recommendations on a good reamer?

 

[JerrySambrook]

Alan, just buy yourself a good number 3 center drill, but do not go all the way to the largest diameter.

 

[Scruffy]

Thanks...

On my way to Lowe's..

 

[SerenityWoodWorks]

I would use a reamer instead of a drill bit as it will leave the surface smoother for the 60* seating. I ordered mine for less than 10 bucks shipped on Ebay.