Pen mandrel?

[WDHTRIM]

I HAVE THE LARGEST LATHE FROM HARBOR FREIGHT AND WAS WONDERING IF ANYONE KNOWS WHAT THE MORSE TAPER SIZE OR THE THREAD SIZE IS ON THIS MACHINE. I WANT TO TURN SOME PENS FOR XMAS GIFTS AND FOUND THAT THE MANDREL COME IN MANY DIFFERENT SIZES FOR DIFFERENT MACHINES. NOT SURE WHICH TO GET.IS THE SREW TYPE BETTER THAN THE TAPER TYPE OR IS IT A PREFRENCE THING.:icon_scra

 

[timf67]

99% sure it is a #2MT. Not sure about the threads.

 

[jimwill48]

It is indeed a M2 taper and the thread size is 1x8tpi. The morse taper type of mandrel is better IMHO due to runout on the treaded type...james

 

[ScottM]

I have that lathe and it is an MT#2. if buying a mandrel get the one with the variable length feature.

 

[WDHTRIM]

thanks guys. and scott i took your advice the adjustable length mandrel will be here in a few days. does anyone know if there is a place nearby to buy penkits at a reasonable price i prefer to spend my money locally if possible.

 

[ScottM]

Klingspor and Woodcraft both stock pen kits. Packard Woodworks is a NC based company that sells kits too. http://www.packardwoodworks.com/