12-29-2012, 06:48 AM
I am the same Ed and is why my lathe is 10 year old and still running like new with only minor wear. Cast iron dust needs to be removed strait away as it's abrasive, and gets in everywhere. I do everything I can to cover the lathe before machining it to save it getting everywhere, those way covers/protectors I made do a really good job.
Even with just mild steel swarf the small stuff will work it's way in. As for cleaning my lathe I keep the ways clean always, but with the minimal room between the lathe and chip tray it gets done about every 3 months. I do have plans to lift the lathe another 50mm to give more room for cleaning.
I would much rather have a lathe shinning than something that doesn't look like anyone owns it. Clean up doesn't take long if you do it regularly.
Dave
Even with just mild steel swarf the small stuff will work it's way in. As for cleaning my lathe I keep the ways clean always, but with the minimal room between the lathe and chip tray it gets done about every 3 months. I do have plans to lift the lathe another 50mm to give more room for cleaning.
I would much rather have a lathe shinning than something that doesn't look like anyone owns it. Clean up doesn't take long if you do it regularly.
Dave