Palmgren 84315 User manual

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1155″″VVAARRIIAABBLLEESSPPEEEEDDWWOOOODDLLAATTHHEE
Read carefully and follow all safety rules and operating instructions before
first use of this product.
21124.09-0703

DDEESSCCRRIIPPTTIIOONN
Palmgren 38″variable speed wood lathe provides capability to
turn wooden workpieces up to 38″long and 4″diameter. This lathe
can also turn bowls up to 15″diameter and 4″thick. The motor
rotates at 1725 RPM and the spindle speeds are 360-2400 RPM.
Extended spindle allows convenient outboard turning.
UUNNPPAACCKKIINNGG
Refer to Figure 1.
Check for shipping damage. If damage has occurred, a claim must
be filed with carrier. Check for completeness. Immediately report
missing parts to dealer.
Your wood lathe is shipped complete in one carton and includes a
motor. Separate all parts from packing materials and check each
one with the unpacking list to make certain all items are account-
ed for before discarding any packing material.
If any parts are missing, do not attempt to assemble the lathe, plug
in the power cord, or turn the switch on until the missing parts are
obtained and properly installed.
A Headstock Assembly
BBed
C Tailstock Assembly
D Tool Rest Base Assembly
E Handle
F Parts Bag
G12″Tool Rest
H6″Tool Rest
IMPORTANT: The bed is coated with a protectant. To ensure prop-
er fit and operation, remove coating. Coating is easily removed
with mild solvents, such as mineral spirits, and a soft cloth. Avoid
getting cleaning solution on paint or any of the rubber or plastic
parts. Solvents may deteriorate these finishes. Use soap and water
on paint, plastic or rubber components. Wipe all parts thoroughly
with a clean dry cloth. Apply paste wax to the bed.
SPECIFICATIONS
Turning length (max.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38″
Bowl diameter (max.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15″
Overall length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60″
Overall height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15″
Width . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8″
Spindle Speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 360 to 2400 RPM
Spindle Taper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2MT
Spindle Thread . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1″-8
Tail Stock Taper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2MT
Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SP, Locking rocker
Motor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120/240V, 12/6 AMPS
Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175 lbs
SSAAFFEETTYYRRUULLEESS
CAUTION: Always follow proper operating procedures as defined
in this manual – even if you are familiar with use of this or similar
tools. Remember that being careless for even a fraction of a second
can result in severe personal injury.
BE PREPARED FOR JOB
• Wear proper apparel. Do not wear loose clothing, gloves, neck-
ties, rings, bracelets or other jewelry which may get caught in
moving parts of machine.
• Wear protective hair covering to contain long hair.
•Wear safety shoes with non-slip soles.
•Wear safety glasses complying with United States ANSI Z87.1.
Everyday glasses have only impact resistant lenses.They are
NOT safety glasses.
•Wear face mask or dust mask if operation is dusty.
•Be alert and think clearly. Never operate power tools when
tired, intoxicated or when taking medications that cause
drowsiness.
PREPARE WORK AREA FOR JOB
•Keep work area clean. Cluttered work areas invite accidents.
•Do not use power tools in dangerous environments. Do not use
power tools in damp or wet locations. Do not expose power
tools to rain.
•Work area should be properly lighted.
•Keep visitors at a safe distance from work area.
•Keep children out of workplace. Make workshop childproof. Use
padlocks, master switches or remove switch keys to prevent
any unintentional use of power tools.
•Keep power cords from coming in contact with sharp objects,
oil, grease, and hot surfaces.
TOOL SHOULD BE MAINTAINED
•Always unplug tool prior to inspection.
•Consult manual for specific maintaining and adjusting
procedures.
•Keep tool lubricated and clean for safest operation.
•Keep all parts in working order. Check to determine that the
guard or other parts will operate properly and perform their
intended function.
•Check for damaged parts. Check for alignment of moving parts,
binding, breakage, mounting and any other condition that may
affect a tool's operation.
•A guard or other part that is damaged should be properly
repaired or replaced. Do not perform makeshift repairs. (Use
parts list provided to order replacement parts.)
•Never adjust attachments while running. Disconnect power to
avoid accidental start-up.
•Have damaged or worn power cords replaced immediately.
•Keep cutting tools sharp for efficient and safest operation.
2
Palmgren Operating Manual & Parts List 84315
Figure 1 – Unpacking
A
D
C
E
H
B
G
F

3
SAFETY RULES (CONTINUED)
KNOW HOW TO USE TOOL
•Use right tool for job. Do not force tool or attachment to do a
job for which it was not designed.
•Disconnect tool when changing attachments.
•Avoid accidental start-up. Make sure that the tool is in the “off”
position before plugging in, turning on safety disconnect or
activating breakers.
•Do not force tool. It will work most efficiently at the rate for
which it was designed.
•Keep hands away from chuck, centers and other moving parts.
•Never leave tool running unattended.Turn the power off and
do not leave tool until it comes to a complete stop.
•Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance.
•Never stand on tool. Serious injury could occur if tool is tipped
or if centers are unintentionally contacted.
•Know your tool. Learn the tool's operation, application and spe-
cific limitations.
•Handle workpiece correctly. Mount firmly in holding devices.
Protect hands from possible injury.
•Turn machine off if workpiece splits or becomes loose.
•Use cutting tools as recommended in“Operation.”
WARNING: For your own safety, do not operate your wood lathe
until it is completely assembled and installed according to
instructions.
PROTECTION: EYES, HANDS, FACE, BODY, EARS
•If any part of your lathe is missing, malfunctioning , or has been
damaged or broken, cease operating immediately until the par-
ticular part is properly repaired or replaced.
•Wear safety goggles that comply with United States ANSI Z87.1
and a face shield or dust mask if operation is dusty. Wear ear
plugs or muffs during extended periods of operation.
•Small loose pieces of wood or other objects that contact a spin-
ning workpiece can be propelled at very high speed.This can
be avoided by keeping the lathe clean.
•Never turn the lathe ON before clearing the bed, head and tail-
stock of all tools, wood scraps, etc., except the workpiece and
related support devices for the operation planned.
•Never place your face or body in line with the chuck or face-
plate.
•Never place your fingers or hands in path of cutting tools.
•Never reach in back of the workpiece with either hand to sup-
port the piece, remove wood scraps, or for any other reason.
Avoid awkward operations and hand positions where a sudden
slip could cause fingers or hand to move into a spinning work-
piece.
•Shut the lathe OFF and disconnect power source when remov-
ing the faceplate, changing the center, adding or removing an
auxiliary device, or making adjustments.
•Turn key lock switch to “off” and remove key when tool is not in
use.
•If the workpiece splits or is damaged in any way, turn lathe OFF
and remove the workpiece from the holders. Discard damaged
workpiece and start with a new piece of wood.
•Use extra care when turning wood with twisted grain or wood
that is twisted or bowed – it may cut unevenly or wobble
excessively.
KNOW YOUR CUTTING TOOLS
• Dull, gummy, improperly sharpened or set cutting tools can
cause vibration and chatter during cutting operations.
Minimize potential injury by proper care of tools and regular
machine maintenance.
THINK SAFETY
Safety is a combination of operator common sense and alertness
at all times when the lathe is being used.
• For your own safety, read all rules and precautions in the opera-
tor's manual before using this tool.
•For eye protection, wear safety glasses complying with United
States ANSI Z87.1.
•Do not wear loose clothing, gloves, neckties, rings, bracelets or
other jewelry that could get caught in moving parts of machine
or workpiece.Wear protective hair covering to contain long
hair.
•Tighten all clamps, fixtures and tailstock before applying power.
Check to make sure that all tools and wrenches have been
removed.
•With switch off, rotate workpiece by hand to make sure that
there is adequate clearance. Start the machine on lowest speed
setting to verify that the workpiece is secure.
•For large pieces, create a rough shape on another piece of
equipment before installing on faceplate.
•Do not mount any workpieces that have splits or knots.
•Remove any center from spindle when using an outboard
device for auxiliary turning.
•Never attempt to remount a faceplate turning to the faceplate
for any reason.
•Never attempt to remount a between-centers turning if the
original centers on the turning have been altered or removed.
•When remounting a between-centers turning that has non-
altered original centers, make sure that the speed is at the low-
est setting for start-up.
•Use extra caution when mounting a between-centers turning
to the faceplate, or a faceplate turning to between-centers, for
secondary operations. Make sure that the speed is at the lowest
setting for start-up.
•Never perform any operation with this lathe where the work-
piece is hand-held. Do not mount a reamer, milling cutter, drill
bit, wire wheel or buffing wheel to the headstock spindle.
•When hand-sanding faceplate or between-centers mounted
workpieces, complete all sanding BEFORE removing the work-
piece from the lathe.
•Never run the spindle in the wrong direction. The cutting tool
could be pulled from your hands.The workpiece should always
turn towards the operator.
•For spindle turning, ALWAYS position the tool rest above the
centerline of the workpiece and spindle (approximately 1/8″).
•Use the drill chuck accessory in the tail stock only. Do not
mount any drill bit that extends more than 6″beyond chuck
jaws.
CAUTION: Follow safety instructions that appear on the head-
stock assembly for your lathe.
Palmgren Operating Manual & Parts List 84315

4
AASSSSEEMMBBLLYY
Refer to Figures 2 - 6.
CAUTION: Do not attempt assembly if parts are missing. Use this
manual to order replacement parts.
•Remove all components from the shipping carton and verify
against the parts list on page 2. Clean each component and
remove shipping preservatives (coatings) as required.
•After selecting an appropriate bench, table, or lathe stand, set
the bed towards the front and the left side.
•Turn bed on its side with the bottom of the bed facing towards
you and with the headstock end of the bed on the left side.
•Place headstock assembly on its side near the left end of the
bed. Install the threaded rods into the headstock.
•Move headstock into the bed so that the hub on the bottom of
the headstock seats into the hole in the bed. Place plate over
the eccentric shaft onto the threaded rods and secure in posi-
tion with hex nuts.
•Place lathe upright. Install locking handle into eccentric shaft.
Secure alignment pin chain to bed with screw. Position head-
stock so that spindle faces toward opposite end of bed. Insert
alignment pin through headstock into the bed. Install head-
stock in position by pulling locking handle forward. Secure
speed control knob using washer and screw.
•Slide the tool rest base assembly onto the bed. Make sure
clamping plate is oriented with slot in bed. Secure the position
with locking handle. Place 12″or 6″tool rest into base and
secure in position.
•Slide tail stock assembly onto the bed in the same manner as
the tool rest base. Install locking handle and secure in position.
•When the wood lathe is ready for use, it should appear as it
does in Figure 6.
•Examine the line cord to make sure that the plug is in good
condition and that the insulation has not been damaged dur-
ing transit.
IINNSSTTAALLLLAATTIIOONN
Refer to Figures 7 - 12.
MOUNTING LATHE TO BENCH
•Position the lathe assembly on top of a suitable stand or bench.
The headstock end should be close enough to a side edge so
that outboard operations can be performed without difficulty.
•Verify that the bed is resting flat on the bench top. Mark the
mounting hole locations using the holes in the bed as a guide.
Move the lathe and drill four 3/8″holes through the bench top.
Place the lathe back in position and feed four 5/16 x 2″carriage
bolts through the holes in the bed. Secure from underneath
with flat washers, lock washers, and hex nuts (not supplied).
STABILITY OF WOOD LATHE
If there is any tendency for the lathe to tip over or move during
certain cutting operations, such as cutting extremely heavy pieces
or long, out-of-round objects, the lathe should be bolted down.
LOCATION OF WOOD LATHE
The lathe should be positioned so that neither the operator nor a
casual observer is forced to stand in line with the spinning chuck.
INSTALLATION OF CENTERS
The spur center and the bearing center have Morse taper #2 to
match the spindle and tail stock bores.To install the centers, slide
them into the bores with a firm, swift movement.They will be fur-
ther secured when a workpiece is squeezed between the centers.
Palmgren Operating Manual & Parts List 84315
Figure 2 – Install Threaded Rods
Plate
Eccentric Shaft
Threaded Rod
Headstock
Bottom
Figure 3 – Mount Headstock
Figure 4 – Secure Headstock
Figure 5 – Tool Rest
Figure 6 – Completed Assembly
Bearing
Center
Locking
Handle
Locking Handle
Spur Center
Tool Rest
Bed
Headstock
Locking
Handles
Clamping Plate
Tailstock
Speed
Control
Knob
Alignment Pin
Locking Handle
Screw

5
Palmgren Operating Manual & Parts List 84315
INSTALLATION (CONTINUED)
REMOVAL OF SPUR CENTER FROM SPINDLE
•To remove the spur center from the spindle, insert the center
removal rod into the spindle and gently tap the center out.
Refer to Figure 7.
REMOVAL OF BEARING CENTER FROM RAM
•To remove bearing center from tail stock ram, turn handwheel
counterclockwise. Refer to Figure 8.
POWER SOURCE
WARNING: Do not connect wood lathe to the power source until
all assembly steps have been completed.
The motor is designed for operation on the voltage and frequency
specified. Normal loads will be handled safely on voltages not
more than 10% above or below specified voltage. Running the unit
on voltages which are not within range may cause overheating
and motor burn-out. Heavy loads require that voltage at motor ter-
minals be no less than the voltage specified on nameplate.
•Power supply to the motor is controlled by a single pole lock-
ing rocker switch. Remove the key in the rocker switch to pre-
vent unauthorized use.
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING: Improper connection of equipment grounding conduc-
tor can result in the risk of electrical shock. Equipment should be
grounded while in use to protect operator from electrical shock.
•Check with a qualified electrician if grounding instructions are
not understood or if in doubt as to whether the tool is properly
grounded.
•This tool is equipped with an approved 3-conductor cord rated
at 300V and a 3-prong grounding type plug (see Figure 9) for
your protection against shock hazards.
•Grounding plug should be plugged directly into a properly
installed and grounded 3-prong grounding-type receptacle, as
shown (Figure 9).
•Do not remove or alter grounding prong in any manner. In the
event of a malfunction or breakdown, grounding provides a
path of least resistance for electrical shock.
WARNING: Do not permit fingers to touch the terminals of plug
when installing or removing from outlet.
•Plug must be plugged into matching outlet that is properly
installed and grounded in accordance with all local codes and
ordinances. Do not modify plug provided. If it will not fit in out-
let, have proper outlet installed by a qualified electrician.
•Inspect tool cords periodically and if damaged, have them
repaired by an authorized service facility.
•Green (or green and yellow) conductor in cord is the grounding
wire. If repair or replacement of the electric cord or plug is nec-
essary, do not connect the green (or green and yellow) wire to
a live terminal.
•Where a 2-prong wall receptacle is encountered, it must be
replaced with a properly grounded 3-prong receptacle installed
in accordance with National Electric Code and local codes and
ordinances.
WARNING: This work should be performed by a qualified electri-
cian.
A temporary 3-prong to 2-prong grounding adapter (see Figure 10)
is available for connecting plugs to a two pole outlet if it is proper-
ly grounded.
•Do not use a 3-prong to 2-prong grounding adapter unless
permitted by local and national codes and ordinances.
•(A 3-prong to 2-prong grounding adapter is not permitted in
Canada.) Where permitted, the rigid green tab or terminal on
the side of the adapter must be securely connected to a per-
manent electrical ground such as a properly grounded water
pipe, a properly grounded outlet box or a properly grounded
wire system.
•Many cover plate screws, water pipes and outlet boxes are not
properly grounded. To ensure proper ground, grounding means
must be tested by a qualified electrician.
Figure 9 – 3-Prong Receptacle
Grounding Prong
3-Prong Plug
Properly Grounded Outlet
Figure 7 – Spur Center Removal
Center
Removal Rod
Spur Center
Bearing Center
Handwheel
Figure 8
Figure 10 – 2-Prong Receptacle with Adapter
Make Sure This
Is Connected
To A Known
Ground
2-Prong Receptacle
Grounding Lug
Adapter
3-Prong Plug

6
Palmgren Operating Manual & Parts List 84315
INSTALLATION (CONTINUED)
EXTENSION CORDS
•The use of any extension cord will cause some drop in voltage
and loss of power.
•Wires of the extension cord must be of sufficient size to carry
the current and maintain adequate voltage.
•Use the table to determine the minimum wire size (A.W.G.)
extension cord.
•Use only 3-wire extension cords having 3-prong grounding
type plugs and 3-pole receptacles which accept the tool plug.
•If the extension cord is worn, cut, or damaged in any way,
replace it immediately.
Extension Cord Length
Wire Size A.W.G.
Up to 25 ft. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
NOTE: Using extension cords over 25 ft. long is not recommended.
MOTOR
The wood lathe is assembled with motor and wiring installed as an
integral part of the headstock assembly.
Horsepower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Voltage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120/240
Amperes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12/6
Hertz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Phase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Single
RPM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1725
Rotation (viewed from left side) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Clockwise
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS
WARNING: Make sure unit is off and disconnected from power
source before inspecting any wiring.
The motor is installed and wiring connected as illustrated in the
wiring schematic (see Figure 11).
The lathe is prewired for use on a 120 volt, 60HZ power supply. The
power supply to the motor is controlled by a single pole locking
rocker switch.
The power lines are inserted directly onto the switch. The green
ground line must remain securely fastened to the frame to proper-
ly protect against electrical shock.
•Remove the key to prevent unauthorized use.
240 VOLT OPERATION
•To use the lathe with a 240V, single-phase power supply, have a
qualified electrician attach a 240 volt, 15A 3-prong plug onto
lathe line cord and install the proper connectors and recepta-
cles to power supply.
•See wiring diagram (Figure 12) for wiring instructions.
OOPPEERRAATTIIOONN
Refer to Figures 13 - 78.
WARNING: Operation of any power tool can result in foreign
objects being thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye
damage. Always wear safety goggles complying with Unites States
ANSI Z87.1 (shown on package) before commencing power tool
operation. Safety goggles are available at Palmgren retail stores or
catalog.
CAUTION: Always observe the following safety precautions:
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
•Whenever adjusting or replacing any parts on the tool, turn
switch OFF and remove the plug from power source.
•Recheck all locking handles. They must be tightened securely.
•Make sure all moving parts are free and clear of any
interference.
•Make sure all fasteners are tight and have not vibrated loose.
•With power disconnected, test operation by hand for clearance
and adjust if necessary.
•Always wear eye protection or face shield.
•After turning switch on, always allow the spindle to come up to
full speed before turning.
•Be sure motor runs counterclockwise when viewing spindle
from the right end (inboard side of headstock).
•Keep hands clear of spindle, centers, faceplates and other mov-
ing parts of machine.
•For optimum performance, do not stall motor or reduce speed.
Do not force the tool into the work.
ON-OFF SWITCH
Refer to Figure 13.
Power supply to the lathe is controlled by the locking rocker
switch.To turn lathe on:
•Switch on the rocker switch.
To turn lathe off:
•Switch off the rocker switch.
The rocker switch has a removable key to prevent unauthorized
use or accidental start-up of the lathe. Removing the key will lock
the lathe from use.
To lock the lathe:
•Switch off the rocker switch.
•Disconnect the line cord from power source.
Figure 11 – Wiring Schematic
Green
L1
3241
L2
120V
Power
Motor
Figure 12 – Wiring Schematic
3
3
1
120V
240V
1
2
4
2
4
L1 L2
L1 L2

7
Palmgren Operating Manual & Parts List 84315
OPERATION (CONTINUED)
•Pull out the removable key.The key has the words,“Remove to
Lock”.
•Store key in a safe place
NOTE: With the key removed, the rocker can be “ROCKED”, but the
switch cannot be actuated.
To unlock the lathe:
•Position the rocker in the OFF position.
•Insert the key into the rocker.
•Connect line cord to power source.
•The switch can now be actuated.
CHANGING SPEEDS
To vary spindle speeds, rotate speed control knob to the desired
setting. Refer to speed chart for specific turning operations.
CAUTION: Change speeds only while motor is running:
SPINDLE TURNING
If you have never done any amount of wood turning, we suggest
that you practice using the various wood turning tools. Start with
a small spindle turning.
Be sure to study the following pages of this manual.They explain
and illustrate the correct use of the turning tools, the positioning
of the tool rest, and other information to help you gain experience.
•Select a piece of wood 2″x 2″x 12″.
•Draw diagonal lines on each end to locate the centers.
•On one end, make a saw cut approximately 1/16″deep on each
diagonal line.This is for the spur center.
•The other end uses the bearing center. Place the point of the
bearing center on the wood where the diagonal lines cross.
•Drive the bearing center into the wood. Use a wooden mallet or
a plastic hammer, but put a piece of wood on the end of the
bearing center to protect it from harm.
•Remove the bearing center and drive the spur center into the
other end of the wood. Make sure the spurs are in the saw cuts.
Remove the spur center.
•Make sure the centers and the hole in the spindle and the tail
stock ram are clean. Insert the spur center into the headstock
and the bearing center into the tail stock.Tap them in lightly
with a piece of wood. Do not drive them in.
•If the tail stock center is not of the ball bearing type, put a drop
of oil or wax on the wood where it contacts the center. This will
lubricate the wood while it is turning.
•Place the wood between the centers and lock the tail stock.
•Move the bearing center into the wood by turning the hand
wheel. Make sure that the bearing center and spur center are
“seated” into the wood in the holes made earlier. Rotate the
wood by hand while turning the hand wheel.
•Adjust the tool rest approximately 1/8″away from the corners of
the wood and 1/8″above the center line. Note the angled posi-
tion of the tool rest base. Lock the tool rest base and the tool
rest.
•Observe the speed chart (see page 16). For example, a 2″
square turning up to 18″long should run at 1100 RPM for
“roughing”. Rotate the wood by hand to make sure that the cor-
ners do not strike the tool rest and verify that the indexing pin
is not engaged.
INDEXING
Refer to Figure 18.
The spindle pulley has 24 equally spaced holes (15° apart).The index
pin passes through the spindle pulley, engages with one of the 24
holes and locks the spindle from turning while you put a mark on
the workpiece.
Rocker Switch
Speed Control Knob Removable Key
Figure 13
Figure 15
Figure 16
Figure 14
Diagonal Lines
on Both Ends
Figure 17
Figure 18 Index Pin Lever
Spindle Pulley

8
Palmgren Operating Manual & Parts List 84315
OPERATION (CONTINUED)
For example, to locate the position of six flutes on a cylinder:
•Open the upper rear cover.
•Pull back on index pin lever until the index pin engages one of
the 24 holes in the spindle pulley.
•Adjust the 12″tool rest to the centerline of the workpiece and
make a mark.
•Push index pin lever forward to release pin. Slowly rotate the
workpiece until pin is located 60° (4 holes) from initial position.
(The spindle pulley has a degree scale). Engage index pin into
the pulley and place another mark on the workpiece.
•Continue these steps until there are 6 marks on the workpiece.
•Bowl turnings or wheel turnings can be marked in the same
manner.
WARNING: The indexing pin must be disengaged for all other
operations on the lathe.
OUTBOARD TURNING
This technique makes it possible to do jobs on this machine that
are too large to mount conventionally. It is straight forward face-
plate turning, except, because of the work size, caution must be
taken and speeds must be restricted to minimums. If you antici-
pate doing outboard turning you must purchase a bowl turning
rest.The bowl turning rest is attached to the lathe bed.
CAUTION: Do not try to push this support when cutting. Do not
try to mount work so large that the motor must strain to turn it. If
you wish to experiment with this technique, do so with soft woods.
Let the heavier, harder wood come later.
To prepare the lathe for outboard turning, unlock the headstock by
pulling up on locking handle. Remove pin and rotate headstock
90°. Insert pin at outboard alignment hole and secure headstock
with locking handle.
USING WOODWORKING CHISELS
SELECTION OF CHISELS
Better chisels have handles approximately 10″long to provide
plenty of grip and leverage. Sharp tools are essential for clean, easy
work. Select tools that will take and hold keen edges.
THEORY OF TURNING
The two classes of chisels are those intended primarily for cutting,
and chisels used only for scraping.
•The cutting chisels are the gouge, skew and parting tool. These
are the most used.They are commonly sharpened to a razor
edge by honing on both sides.
•The scraping chisels are the flat nose, round nose and spear
point. These are not honed on the flat sides – the wire edges
produced by grinding are left on to aid in the scraping process.
Cutting and Scraping
•To cut, the chisel is held so that the sharp edge actually digs
into the revolving work to peel off shavings.
•To scrape, the chisel is held at a right angle to the work surface.
This tool removes fine particles instead of shavings.
Many operations require that the cutting chisels be used for scrap-
ing, but scraping chisels are practically never used for cutting.
Scraping dulls a chisel much faster, especially the razor sharp cut-
ting chisels.
Cutting is faster than scraping and produces a smoother finish
which requires less sanding. However, it is far more difficult to mas-
ter. Scraping, on the other hand, is far more precise and easier to
control.
Figure 21 – The Six Commonly Used Chisel Types
Figure 20 – Outboard Turning
Figure 19 – Bowl Turning Rest Figure 22
Cutting Chisel Scraping Chisel
Figure 23 Cutting Scraping

9
Palmgren Operating Manual & Parts List 84315
OPERATION (CONTINUED)
When You Can Cut and When You Must Scrape
There are two different approaches:
•One approach is toward a circumference of the workpiece (for
example turning down the outer surface of a cylinder or the
inner wall of a hollow round box). In this approach, the surface
being turned travels under the chisel edge like an endless belt.
•The second approach is toward the diameter of a workpiece (as
when turning the face of a faceplate turning, or the side of a
large shoulder on a spindle turning). In this approach, the sur-
face being turned rotates like a disc under the chisel edge.
•Sometimes the optimum approach will be a combination of
both methods.
Either a cutting or scraping action can be used when the approach
is toward a circumference – the shaving is removed like a peeling
from a potato. Scraping can only be used when the approach is
toward a diameter. The reason is obvious when you consider that
faceplate turning practically always requires removal of wood
across the grain.Wood does not peel easily across the grain and
attempts to use any inappropriate cutting methods will likely
result in damage to the workpiece.There is also danger that the
tool could be pulled from the hands of the operator.
In general, a cutting action is used for the majority of spindle turn-
ing operations while faceplate turning is usually accomplished by
the scraping method.When a combination approach is to be used,
the operator will have to judge, by the feel of the work, when to
stop cutting and start scraping. Never try to cut when it becomes
difficult to hold the chisel against the roughness of the wood grain.
How to Position Tool Rest for Circumference Cutting
When cutting, the object is to pierce the outer skin of wood to a
certain desired depth and then to hold the chisel steady with the
bevel edge parallel to the work circumference so that it will peel
off a shaving at this desired depth.
•The only sure method of holding the chisel steady is to rest the
bevel against the work (Figure 25A). When the tool rest is at the
proper height, the chisel can be held with the bevel pressed
against the work, and the tool rest will act as a fulcrum to sup-
port the chisel against the downward force of the revolving
work.
•If the rest is placed too low, so that the chisel is held with the
bevel out from the work (Figure 25B), the cutting edge will con-
tinue to dig deeper into the work. It will dig in until the “bite”
becomes so deep that your hands have difficulty holding the
chisel – then the improperly supported chisel will begin to
bounce or chatter against the workpiece.
•If the rest is placed too low, the chisel must be held extremely
high to position the bevel against the work (Figure 25C). Then
the rest loses most of its value as a fulcrum and the downward
force of the revolving workpiece tends to kick the chisel back
out of your hands.
•If the rest is placed too high (Figure 25D) and the chisel is cor-
rectly positioned for cutting, it strikes the workpiece near the
top where the direction of force exerted by the workpiece is
nearly horizontal – and kickback will again result.
•If the rest is placed too far out from the work surface (Figure
25E), then, when correctly held, the chisel is again too high on
the work. Also, you have less leverage on your side of the tool
rest and it is even more difficult to hold the chisel. With large
diameter work (Figure 25F), the tool rest can be above the
workpiece centerline, and somewhat out from the work sur-
face.With small diameter work (Figure 25G), the rest should be
closer to the work surface. As work grows smaller, the rest
should be repositioned.
How to Position Tool Rest for Circumference Scraping
In scraping operations, the tool rest position is not as critical as it is
for cutting operations.
•The chisel generally is held horizontally, though it can be held
at an angle to reach into tight places. Considering that the wire
edge of the chisel does the scraping, Figures 26B and 26C show
the results of too low or too high a position for the rest.
•Figure 26A shows the chisel action with the rest correctly
positioned.
How to Position Chisel and Rest for Diameter Scraping
When scraping on the diameter, that portion of surface to the right
of center is moving upward (Figure 27A). If a chisel is placed in this
area, it will simply be carried up off the rest and out of your hands.
•All diameter approach operations must be done at the left of
center.
Diameter
Approach
Circumference
Approach
Figure 24
Steady
Thrust
Against
Hands
Chatter
Kickback
Kickback
Bevel
Against
Work
Chisel Rest
Too High
On Work
Handle
Kicked Up
Large
Diameter
Small
Diameter
No Support
For
Bevel
Point
Digging In
Chisel Cutting Properly
Rest Too Distant - Chisel Too High
Point Too Far From Rest
Rest Too Low
Chisel Too Horizontal
Rest
Too Low
Chisel
Too High
Figure 25
Fig. 25A Fig. 25B Fig. 25C
Fig. 25D
Fig. 25G
Fig. 25E Fig. 25F
No Stock
Removed
Edge
Digging
In
Correct
Figure 26
Fig. 26A Fig. 26B Fig. 26C

10
Palmgren Operating Manual & Parts List 84315
OPERATION (CONTINUED)
Three different chisel contact points are shown in Figure 27B. It will
be noted that when a chisel is above the workpiece center (or
below it) the work surface sweeps past the chisel edge at an angle
and tends to carry the chisel in one direction or the other along
the rest.
•Only when the chisel contacts the work on the centerline, does
the work surface pass squarely under the chisel edge.This,
then, is the position in which it is easiest to hold the chisel
steady. To obtain this position, place the rest approximately
1/8″(thickness of chisel) below center.
USING THE GOUGE
Three gouges, the 1/4,1/2and 3/4″sizes, are adequate for general
homeshop turning. Other sizes from 1/8to 2″can be purchased to
provide more flexibility.
The chief use of the gouge is for rough circumference cutting of
raw stock down to a cylinder of working size. It is best to use this
tool for rapid cutting away of large areas of the workpiece.When
the tool is used this way, it does not produce a smooth surface.
With practice, the gouge can be used for cutting coves and the
shaping of long cuts.
•When used for cutting, the gouge is always held with the con-
vex side down. It should be rolled approximately 30° to 45° in
the direction in which it is being advanced along the rest and
the cutting edge should be slightly ahead of the handle.
USING THE SKEW
•Two skews, the 1/2and 1″sizes, are all that are needed for gen-
eral use. Other sizes are available.
This tool is nearly always used to make finished cuts, to cut vees
and beads, and to square shoulders. Properly used, it produces the
best finish that can be obtained with a chisel. It is not recommend-
ed for scraping because the edge tends to dull more quickly.
•For finish cutting, the skew is held with the cutting edge con-
siderably in advance of the handle, bevel side down. Keep the
base of the bevel against the work. It is good practice is to
place the skew well over the work, pull it back until the edge
begins to cut, then swing the handle into position to advance
the cut.
Both the toe and the heel of the skew can be used for taking light
cuts, but do not penetrate the wood too deeply without cutting
clearances.There is danger of burning the tip of the tool.
USING THE PARTING TOOL
The parting tool has just one primary purpose: to cut into the
workpiece as deeply as desired, or all the way through to make a
cut-off. It is, therefore, a very narrow tool (1/8″wide) and shaped to
cut its own clearance so that the edge will not be burned. When
used for scraping, however, the parting tool should be backed off
regularly to prevent overheating.
Unlike the gouge and skew, the parting tool is seldom held with
the bevel against the work. Since the amount of stock removal is
small, a support for the bevel is not necessary.
The tool is simply fed into the work at an angle (for cutting), or
pointed at the workpiece center (for scraping). It can be held easily
in one hand.
USING THE SCRAPING CHISELS
•A 1/2″wide spear point chisel, a 1/2″wide round nose chisel, and
a 1″wide flat nose chisel complete the list of tools ordinarily
used by craftsmen and hobbyists.
Each of these scraping chisels can be purchased in various other
sizes for special purposes. All are very useful for diameter scraping
operations and for circumference scraping when cutting methods
cannot be employed.
•The spear point is used for fine scraping and delicate opera-
tions such as the forming of beads, parallel grooves and shal-
low vees.
•Edges and bowl contours can be rounded with the round nose
chisel.
•Any flat surface can be scraped with the flat nose chisel.
USING SHAPER OR MOULDING KNIVES
•An old chisel can be made to serve as a holder for shaper or
moulding knives.
Figure 27
Fig. 27A Fig. 27B
Rest
Figure 28
Cutting Edge
Advanced Wrong
Right
Figure 29
Figure 30
Cutting Scraping
Figure 31
Spear
Point
Round
Nose
Flat nose