Harrison L5 clutch adjustment

[Oldskool FordParticipant @oldskoolford25120]

[Oldskool FordParticipant @oldskoolford25120]

Hello, I'm having a problem with the clutch on my Harrison L5. I've noticed when I disengage it by moving the lever to the left, occasionally the chuck will take an extra second or two to stop rotating. Tonight however the clutch seems to have stuck on permanently – even with the clutch lever fully in the left position, the chuck is still spinning full speed.

I'm thinking I need to reduce the tension on the clutch spring, but I've read my lathe has a brake which should stop the chuck pretty quickly so maybe it's the brake that needs adjusting?

[mechman48Participant @mechman48]

Not having a L5 I can only surmise… I wouldn't be too worried about the chuck taking an extra 'second or two' in normal operation, if it has stuck in the on position it looks as though the clutch does need attention, the best ref I can suggest is get in touch with 'John ..Doubleboost' … he has a similar lathe & he has had to adjusted his clutch when he got it, as well as fitting DRO's etc. so have a look at his YouTube site…'Doubleboost' & possibly pm him, you'll get a few laughs too. As for the brake I would consider that as an emergency method of stopping, some machinery have telescopic trip switches which will inject DC into the motor & that 'WILL' stop any machine dead, but that's more in the industrial environment… H & S requirements. Other owners on here will no doubt offer solutions.

George.

[mahgniaParticipant @mahgnia]

Oldskool,

IIRC from my days as an apprentice, the Harrison clutch/brake lever should have a neutral position between the clutch engagement (lever to the right) and brake(lever pushed hard to the left).

If the clutch does not disengage before being pushed hard to the left, then it needs adjustment, or is seized. Otherwise this could burn out the clutch discs and/or the brake.

I remember that the clutch adjustment was not a particularly difficult procedure, but the details escape me after nearly 40 years!

Andrew.

[RobboParticipant @robbo]

This may help – or may not! Only mentions clutch slip.

[hthParticipant @hth]

Hi

I am not qualified to offer advice, but I do have a L5 myself . The only comment I can make is, the clutch in my L5 makes a horrible rattling noise . I can reduce the annoying rattle with the speed control knob on the VFD – at certain RPM's the noise is almost gone. Reading the lathes .uk information, Tony writes , the L5 clutch is known to be noisy . My L5 clutch does function well. Mike

[JonParticipant @jon]

Aagh the old Harrison clutch rattle, just ignore it I did for 9 years though can be took out.

Motor noise and vibration more evident eating in to concrete via the adjusters.

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