Reversible Chucks?

[vtgaryw]

So what makes a chuck reversible? I have my new Rikon lathe now, but my chuck isn't billed as "reversible." I noticed that the faceplate that came installed on the Rikon out of the box has a set screw that tightens down behind the threaded portion of the spindle. Is that all it takes for a chuck to be reversible?

Gary

 

[scotirish]

You got it! The set screw locks the chuck (face plate) so it will not unscrew while turning. Work safe and have fun. Ron

 

[vtgaryw]

That's what I thought. So there's no reason I can't just drill and tap a hole on the mounting collar on the back side of the chuck.

Why don't manufacturers just put a set screw in automatically?

Gary

 

[robersonjr]

Gary, that will work provided that you do not have an adapter in the chuck, if you do, you need to put a set screw in both the chuck and the adapter.

 

[low_48]

Over zealous tightening of the set screw into the threads will break off the peaks of the threads. Not something everyone wants.

 

[scotirish]

If you haven't already drilled, make sure to be close enough to the head that you miss the screw threads on the lathe. :biggrin::biggrin: If not, then you will mess up the screw thread when you tighten the set screw and you may not be able to remove the chuck.
Ron