Shopsmith Forums

Hi everyone We just got our son a mark 5, we are pretty sure a 500series.
He is super excited and can’t wait to start making stuff. One thing he really wants to make is a sword from a tutorial online. Problem is the lathe is 34” and he needs it slightly longer. Is there a reason not to buy longer tubes and replace the ones that are there? Doing a cursory look, it seems like it wouldn’t be difficult to remove them.
Thx for your help- I’m sure we will have lots of questions. At least paranoid mom will
Kimberly

Question is, how long is 'slightly?

Yes longer tubes CAN be done, but will be $$$$$$.

What limits the length is the distance from the driving center etc. to the tailstock.

One can improvise a further away tailstock if that is done so carefully and safely.(A nearby wall comes to mind).

Critical is that at all times, the spacing and alignment between the driving center and the tailstock be constant.(immobile)

OH! BTW Welcome!!

Consider making the handle and the blade separately.

[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGNCQ4oqz0U[/youtube]

[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6o1g5g5-dFY[/youtube]