Does anyone have a Lathe machine ?

[PharAstro]

I need to modify a T-ring adapter. Basically, it's too long and I can't reach focus when I insert the reducer in my 8SE. The mod will involve cutting it in two, then turning an OD on one piece and an ID on the other piece to press-fit them back together with a shorter total length. This is for a Samsung NX mount, and I can find a shorter one online. I can operate a lathe, but don't have access to one.

[Airconvent]

Wow lathe machine? I have not used one since my school days.
You can ask any of those mechanical workshops in the industrial estate areas. I previously asked one to fabricate my adapter mounting plate for my ETX105 but I think that business has since moved on.

[PharAstro]

Thanks, Airconvent. I might have to go that route. I've had some machining done at AMK Ind Park II before. Just trying to save the $50 they'll charge me for this particular job (I bought adapter for $15). Plus it would be fun to cut metal. Haven't done that in quite a while.

[orly_andico]

the problem with these industrial shops is that, the $50 they charge you is probably a net loss for them, unless their machine is sitting idle.

i have had this problem so many times that I am thinking of buying a Sherline lathe from SGTooling. It's about $1100 - so not exactly cheap, but just about the same price as a high-end eyepiece. Not particularly unreasonable.

my wife just won't let me buy one because I already have too much junk and our place is too small...

[Grievous]

Times like this, I wish SG had a decent Makerspace.

[Airconvent]

Check this out Charlie...its a start

@ PharAstro - Maybe you can find some facility you need in all the places featured.

http://sgmakers.com/makerspaces/

[orly_andico]

The car repair shops in Sin Ming, many of them have lathes. They use them for refacing brake discs.

If you have a favourite shop in that area, maybe they could help you with your adapter.

[PharAstro]

Thanks for input, guys. It's nice to see I'm not alone! As it "turns" out, one engineer that works for me has a small lathe at home. It took him a couple weeks to dig it out of storage and find all the tooling, but then he made my part. Have to give him a good bonus this year!

[orly_andico]

as it "turns"out eh. Ha ha.