modifying a lapidary arbor

[Cheryl]

has anyone had experience modifying a lapidary arbor for use as a glass lathe?

[Buttercup]

Once upon a time we had a very interesting, active thread on here about DIY building, modifying and repurposing of existing tools and equipment. I've tried to find it but think it may have fallen victim to the Board reorganization some time ago.

I'd like to revisit it. Does anyone have a link to it? I don't seem to have one but do remember there was a lot of great, innovative info on there. Jen

[Kevin Midgley]

the issue is the runout or vibration at the end of the shaft. A lapidary piece of equipment usually does not have the huge shaft sizeand quality bearings a glass lathe will usually have used to prevent wobble etc which could make your work difficult if not impossible at times.

[Morganica]

A glass lathe can do a lot of things, though; what specifically are you looking for from yours?

[Tom Fuhrman]

which type glass lathe are you trying to make? engraving or torchworking? they are very different.

[Cheryl]

ah, this is why I love this board - questions I hadn't thought of! I want an engraving lathe but can't afford the Steve Klein covington. I've become a craig's list fan and saw a lapidary arbor and thought...hmmmm...