Hello Ken,

There are two versions of the Myford clutch, the serial number of the lathe doesn't help identify which.

It would be wise not to undo anything until the type is identified. Can you post a picture?

Regards

Brian

Edit. Perhaps I should add that the later version operates a cone into a matching taper in the large pulley on the motor end of the countershaft. The other version expands a horseshoe shaped piece into the 4 step belt pulley drive to the lathe spindle. They are notoriously noisy

Edited By Brian Wood on 29/09/2015 08:44:17

I've had my Mk1 clutch to bits a few times Ken.

My advice would be to get a copy of the Myford S7 handbook and make sure you are looking at the right version as Brian recommends. If you follow the instructions, the work is fairly straightforward but may be complicated by the nature of the problem. My Mk1 clutch rattled loudly and it turned out that the 'push' pin that sits on the tapered part was broken in half. This wasn't obvious at first (the two parts were still in the hole) but a new one was easily made.

One thing worth noting is that the main shaft will only pull out in one direction (at least on the Mk1) – so you can do a lot of damage if you try to force it out the other way. Getting the clutch adjustment "just right" also took a bit of time as it involved some fiddly trial and error but (once set and locked) it seems to hold up well.

Regards,

IanT

Yes the spring is very strong on the Mk2.

Please describe the "rattle" Is it continuous? Is it at belt frequency (ie each time the belt rotates completely)?

Your call.

It's probably worthwhile checking that the motor pulley is tight on the motor shaft – mine has occasionally come loose which leads to a rattle. Don't forget, as well, that the clutch cone itself (perhaps surprisingly) needs the odd drop of oil.

HTH

Rod