RDG QCTP

[joegibParticipant @joegib]

In another thread dealing with a a member's problems with fitting a 4-way tool turret to a Myford lathe someone posted a query (somewhat OT) about RDG QCTPs. In answer, another poster provided a link to this RDG product:

RDG QCTP

I hasten to say that I'm sure the link was provided in all good faith as a simple answer to a simple question. I had a particular interest in this unit because it was pushed by RDG as especially suitable for an ML10 which I have. Having examined an example at the Sandown show, however, I thought it might be useful to point out its drawbacks:

1. Vertical alignment of tooholder/toolpost is secured by an arrangement involving vertical cylindrical posts mating precisely with semi-circular grooves (some sort of 'Swiss' arrangement?). As manufactured this works fine and if you're content to buy the readymade toolholders as needs arise this isn't a problem. If, however, you've a yen to make to make your own supplementary or special purpose tooholders, replicating this arrangement looks like an nightmare compared, say, with a toolpost employing mating vees. Just my opinion, of course.

2. More serious is the naff arrangement for setting/maintaining toolholder height. If you look at the illustration, the toolholder's leftmost set of 3 capscrews secure the toolbit in its slot, of course. Behind them are 2 further capscrews representing the height setting mechanism. They extend all the way through the toolholder and rest on the topslide surface! Moreover, there's no means for locking them! Strikes me that:

(a) In the course of toolholder changing or angular adjustment, these non-lockable screws will 'work' in their threads such that you'll quickly lose the precise height setting and end up re-setting for each change.

(b) Over time these screws points will wear a groove in your topslide!

Just thought prospective buyers who don't have an opportunity to examine this type of toolpost directly ought to be aware of this before committing.

Joe

[joegibParticipant @joegib]

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