Another mystery attachment for my Hercus- can someone help?

[Kaleb]

In the box of bits with my Hercus lathe, there was this attachment:



I don't know what it is or what it is used for, but I think it might be some sort of indexing attachment since it turns and locks into 6 set positions. It attaches to the bed ways. Does anyone know what it's used for?

 

[steamer]

I'd guess it's an indexable saddle stop. Just a hunch.

Dave

 

[my65pan]

That's what I was thinking too.

 

[mklotz]

Almost certainly a saddle stop.

The adjustable screws with lock nuts are a dead give-away.

 

[Jeremy_BP]

Yup. It's an adjustable stop. An indexable one like that is indispensable when doing multiples of the same part. You can do well without it, but once you've used one, you never want to do without.

 

[stew]

HI ,
It is an Indexable Saddle Stop. It appears as though it has been Modified though. In the Hercus Book 'Textbook Of Turning' they are a Six Position Saddle Stop and not a Four Position like Yours. I use to have a Hercus Model 'A' Plain Bearing Lathe Myself. They are a quite a Nice lathe to use. I Sold Mine as it got to small and I bought a Hafco AL-960B.
I don't know if You have a Manual for Your Lathe,but here is the Link to it http://www.metalwebnews.com/manuals/lathe-tutorial.pdf and here is the Link to Hercus http://www.hercus.com.au/ .
Happy Turning.

Stew