New use for old rollerblades...

[woodArtz]

After fighting the power of centrifugal force for a while, I finally decided to create some support for my hollowform work. I have seen various designs for steady rests that incorporate some way of surrounding the work with a wheeled support. I decided to use a hybrid of the designs I saw and this is the outcome. It seems to be just what the doctor ordered so far.

Basically, it's a couple of layers of 3/4 birch ply glued together. I dadoed for the support arms which are made from plywood as well. The wheels were robbed from an old pair of rollerblades.
Thanks for looking.

View image in gallery​

View image in gallery​

 

[Trent Mason]

Very nice, Bob! :eusa_clap:eusa_clap:eusa_clap:eusa_clap:eusa_clap

 

[eyekode]

I wonder if there is a cheap way to get an eccentric cam that works in a similar way to your tool rest? Then repositioning would be easy as well. But maybe it doesn't matter, there is still a bunch of adjusting that has to happen if you need to move the steady rest.

Anyway I like the dado's. That HF doesn't look too shabby either!

Salem

 

[froglips]

I had the distinct pleasure of seeing this Modern Marvel in person last night.

What a stunning job!

The word substantial comes to mind

Can't wait to see the new level of wafer thin you can turn!

Jim

 

[efr]

One way to solve the eccentric set up problem with a steady rest is to turn a round, expendable section with grooves for the steady rest rollers. Then bore or cut the section with the shape and same offset as you want for the project. One caution: make certain that the project cannot turn in the expendable section.

Bob

 

[boxxmaker]

Hey,you been sneakin around my shop ? :gar-La; gotta go check an see if mine's still there.Got my wheels at a thrift shop for 5 bucks,works pretty good :gar-Bi

 

[woodArtz]

Cool ideas.. thanks. :icon_thum

I have at least one more update to the design I am considering. I want to replace the 1/4-20 bolts on the support arms with 1/4-20 star knobs and use fender washers to distribute the tightening force. Thoughts?

 

[Woodman2k]

Bob,
star knobs with the through centers are what I used.That way if for any reason I want to put a second layer of wheels or whatever,plus I'm using the aluminum T-track with 1/4-20 hex head bolts and fender washers to spread the load.Looks good and works like you bought it I bet.
Greg

 

[Dragon]

Nice job on the steady rest. Nothing like the satisfaction from adapt, improvise, and overcome to solve a problem.:icon_thum

 

[sushinutnc]

nicely executed!

 

[woodArtz]

Thanks guys! It was a fun project.

 

[CaptnA]

That is awesome
One of those "its neat but what does it do" things - until you see/feel/experience first hand the reason for one!
I like the star knob and fender washer ideas - ease and spread the force.
Ken - where are the pictures of yours?
sweet looking piece btw!

 

[woodturnerdon]

Beautiful job, Bob. That looks nice and stable. Well done.
Don L.