Cross Slide Dial

Kpar · Dec 1, 2024

Hi all, I have an ALG20 Lathe. The cross slide dial has always been hard to read and now after time the indications are almost gone.
Have tried to order one but no success at this stage. Has anybody refurbished the markings and if so how ?.
Thanks all.
Kpar

timo_gross · Dec 1, 2024

I never did something like this, but I would probably try to find a local laser engraving service to do it for me. (in my area this would be easy).
The other options depend on your equipment.

For dividing you can find a lot of tips in this thread, that should enable you to find an indexing method that fits your equipment.

https://www.homemodelenginemachinist.com/threads/dividing-plate-diy-help.36481/

For machine engraving I found a 1 mm ball endmill does a good enough job. It is easier to purchase for me and is not as delicate as engraving bits.

clockworkcheval · Dec 2, 2024

Personally I prefer a rotating slitting-saw of say 0,3 mm wide to cut those markings above any type of engraving bit. Simply because when you cut you want cutting speed.

ShopShoe · Dec 2, 2024

MrPete on YouTube walks through a process of making new scales in multiple videos. You might get some ideas by watching. Start Here:

--ShopShoe

SteamChEng · Dec 2, 2024

ShopShoe said:
MrPete on YouTube walks through a process of making new scales in multiple videos. You might get some ideas by watching. Start Here:

--ShopShoe

I ended up watching his whole set of 4 videos on this topic just for the heck of it. I came away wondering if I need to make a new, larger dial from my South Bend.

timo_gross · Dec 2, 2024

clockworkcheval said:
Personally I prefer a rotating slitting-saw of say 0,3 mm wide to cut those markings above any type of engraving bit. Simply because when you cut you want cutting speed.

I did not think of slitting saws.
Thinking of it Hemmingway kits offers a "graduating tool" for the lathe. https://www.hemingwaykits.com/HK1210.

Accurate indexing is the actual challenge I guess.
Since the DRO is on the lathe the dial is basically obsolete. (another pragmatic solution)