Vintage Sheldon Lathe

Glenn F. · Aug 1, 2020

I recently acquired this old metal lathe and would like to learn how to
operate it. What book(s) and/or videos would you recommend?

Thank you,
Glenn F.

TimV · Aug 1, 2020

Lots and lots out there, but the old standard is "How To Run a Lathe". Thread below from Practical Machinist has several more recommendations--it's old and the links are probably outdated, but it will start you on your way.
lathe books

Steve@Advance · Aug 1, 2020

That's a clean little lathe! You can have lots of fun with that!

Look on Youtube, lots of how to run a lathe videos.

Search for "Tubalcain", he's a retired instructor, very well spoken and easy to follow.

Janicholson · Aug 1, 2020

That is from about the late 40s. Sheldons are really good lathes. Nice it is.
There is a slim book from 1907 first published. I will make a link. It is really the easiest and most complete starter manual for turning. In 3 years you will need some additional info.
For steel, Non-sulfer based thread cutting oil works well applied in a spiral along the turning material, or at the tool tip regularly. WD40 actually woks quite well for aluminum turning. Tap Magic brand drilling and tapping fluid is dramatically good. There are two types one for steel, and one for aluminum. It is great. Jim
How to run a lathe.

4wdtom · Aug 2, 2020

I second How To Run A Lathe. Has all you need to know to do a lot.

4wdtom · Aug 2, 2020

I should have mentioned that there is NOTHING on that lathe that oil will damage except the motor and that is up out of the way. Make sure you oil it a little too often rather than not quite often enough. ESPECIALLY the headstock bearings.

dr sportster · Aug 2, 2020

I would recommend you update the tool post holder to the modern system .Lube is a daily chore Lube before each use . Make little magnetic cups for the cutting oil. From fridge magnets keeps the fluid from tipping over .Watch You Tube . Real sweet little machine.

Bob - MI · Aug 2, 2020

Very nice machine.

The lathe is one of the most versatile machines in the shop and I always loved running them. They can be dangerous like any other however and getting better educated is a huge step in the right direction.

Lots of great info out there but mostly stay safe. No loose clothing, safety glasses always, never leave the chuck key in the chuck, and never ever wear gloves.

Difficult to tell from the photo but I am guessing that you don't have power feed on the cross slide, just the carriage. As previously suggested upgrading the tool post would be a nice addition but you can get by with what you have. I am assuming that it came with the but holder for that post?? A drill chuck for the tailstock is essential if you don't have it.

Enjoy the machine.

Ultradog MN · Aug 2, 2020

Nice machine.
I also picked up a lathe recently.
Late 1930s LeBlond Regal. 14x30.
It needs some work but I'm looking forward to getting it running. I was surprised and happy to see it's 220V Single phase.

Glenn F. · Aug 2, 2020

What year would you place this lathe at.....1942 or so?

Thanks,
Glenn F.

Janicholson · Aug 3, 2020

Post WW2 the bent tube lower cabinet looks that vintage. Jim

Glenn F. · Aug 3, 2020

Thanks Jim. As you said, probably late 40s.

Glenn F.

Vintage Sheldon Lathe

Glenn F.

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TimV

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Janicholson

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4wdtom

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dr sportster

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Glenn F.

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