Hatz Biplane Association

Thanks all for your input.

I decided to try and tackle the lathe work myself, on a WW-II era Atlas lathe.
I started with the simpler (?) parts, the spring retainers for the gear legs, and was surprised by the success I had (and the minimal amount of blood I had to shed).
Here is what I did:

Step 1: Mark the stock for size (plus some extra) and drill the hole while the part is still easy to clamp. then enlarge the hole to 1/4": Step 2:
Cut the part off: Step 3:
Enjoy lathing. I don't really know if this is the best way to do it, but it worked for me. I finished both ends to correct size, as I had a little bit of extra length when I cut the tube. Step 4: Check for fit. Repeat 3 more times.

I also modified the aluminum fittings for the tank on the lathe, removing material from the outer end of the lip to make it flat: Next, 30 little threaded tube-ends..

Nice work doc! My cousin has an Atlas lathe, he loves that bugger!

I am starting to get the hang of the lathe, still probably doing many things wrong, but I am now turning the threaded tube endings.
I figured I'd share the joy....

Step 1: Chop a piece off your 4130 rod. Step 2: Square the end. Step 3.a: Drill the hole for the tap (size I I think). Step 3.b: Drill the large hole (To reduce mass for the rosette weld). Step 4: Reduce the radius of the outer dimension. (continued on next post)

(continued)
Step 5: Test for fit Step 6: Cut off the other end Repeat as many times as needed.
Not done yet: Tapping the hole.

Well, these took more time than I expected, but I have a full set now!
I hope I counted correctly!

I figured since I have to hand-tap them, I'll do it after they are welded to the tubes.
Any tips on tapping will be appreciated!

Do it in the lathe and chase the threads after you weld them.

Jeff Moore

I would tap them before welding and then chase them. Using the lathe would be the best since you will be assured that they are straight.

Thanks for the suggestion. I'll give it a try.

When I use the lathe I turn the turret by hand, I don't have the guts or coordination to do it powered.