Precision matthews PM-1440GT User manual

1Copyright © 2020 Quality Machine Tools, LLCPM-1440GT v9 2020-10
Model PM-1440GT Lathe
Ultra High precision gap-bed lathe, with coolant system
Short spindle length, large bore: 15-1/2 long x 2 inch bore
D1-5 camlock spindle mount
40 in. between centers, 14 in. swing over bed, 20-3/4 in. over gap
12 spindle speeds from 50 to 2000 rpm
Multi-speed gearbox for full-range screw cutting, TPI & MM pitch
Bidirectional power feed for saddle & cross-slide
Weight, including stand & coolant system 1750 lb
The PM-1440GT lathe is manufactured in Taiwan
PM-1440GT Shown with optional work
light, chuck and micrometer saddle stop

2Copyright © 2020 Quality Machine Tools, LLCPM-1440GT v9 2020-10
PM-1440GT
FAQ
POWER light o󰀨?
AC power connected?
Circuit breaker in the electrical box
tripped?
Belt Cover In Place? Check Safety
Switch Engagement on this cover.
E-STOP button in? Rotate it,
should pop out.
My lathe doesn’t
run at all (1)
This manual contains essential safety advice on the proper setup, operation, maintenance, and service of
the PM-1440GT lathe. Failure to read, understand and follow the manual may result in property damage
or serious personal injury.
There are many alternative ways to install and use a lathe. As the owner of the lathe you are solely
responsible for its proper installation and safe use. Consider the material contained in this manual to
be advisory only. Quality Machine Tools, LLC cannot be held liable for injury or property damage during
installation or use, or from negligence, improper training, machine modications or misuse.
This manual describes PM-1440GT machines as shipped from November 2016. There may be detail di󰀨erences between
your specic machine and the information given here (with little or no impact on functionality). Please email us if you have
questions about any aspect of the manual or your machine (see our website www.precisionmatthews.com for support
addresses). Your feedback is welcomed!
FOOTBRAKE working, not stuck down?
If working properly, the footbrake should
close the microswitch (inside the LH stand
cabinet), opening it when released.
The motor didn’t run when
power was connected
My lathe doesn’t
run at all (2)
By design it should NOT run if the Motor
Control lever is UP or DOWN when
power is connected.
Electrical schematic, Section 5: Move
the Motor Control switch to neutral, mid
travel, to energize the power-switching
contactor KA, thus restoring normal
conditions.
Copyright © 2020 Quality Machine Tools, LLC
This material was originated by Precision Matthews. No portion of
the manual may be reproduced or distributed in any form without
the written approval of Quality Machine Tools, LLC.
The 3 gearboxes in this machine
(Headstock, Saddle Feed and Apron)
may have been shipped empty.
They must be lled before use, see
Section 4.
GEAR/BELT COVER: The gear/belt cov-
er which covers the main drive belts and
change gears on the left side of the head-
stock has a safety interlock switch on it. BE
SURE the tab from the cover is fully insert-
ed in to the switch.

3Copyright © 2020 Quality Machine Tools, LLCPM-1440GT v9 2020-10
Section 1 INSTALLATION
THESE ARE THE MAIN POINTS TO WATCH OUT FOR!
But read the following pages for more information
• Handling the lathe is at least a two-person job.
• Lifting gear – sling, hoist or forklift – must be rated for at least 1-1/2 tons.
• Working location of the lathe must allow space for removal of the belt cover at left; also,
access to the coolant system (back of right hand cabinet) and the electrical box at the
back of the headstock.
• Power requirement is 220V, 60Hz, 1φ (3φ optional).
• Extension cords are not to be used.
• Before connecting power, be sure that:
1. The machine is on a rm footing.
2. Chuck camlocks tight, no wrench left in chuck.
3. Saddle and cross-slide approx. mid-travel, power feeds are disengaged (Figure 1-8).
4. The headstock gear selectors are set for the lowest spindle speed.
SETTING UP THE LATHE
The PM-1440GT is shipped fully assembled in a single pack-
ing case. The machine can be lifted in one piece by an over-
head hoist or forklift with slings and/or chains, all items rated
for a total weight of at least 1-1/2 tons. A suggested setup for
lifting is shown in Figure 1-1.
When selecting a location for the lathe, allow su󰀩cient room at
the right to allow removal/servicing of the leadscrew, feed shaft
and motor control shaft.
Be sure to keep all lifting gear clear of any part of the
lathe, especially the 3 shafts at the front. Use at least 2-by
spreaders.
Figure 1-3 Coolant tank
Figure 1-1 Lifting with slings
Spreader under the bed
keeps slings/chains clear
of feed shafts, etc.
Before lifting, remove the chuck, if installed, then move the
tailstock and saddle as far to the right as possible to balance
the machine at the point(s) of suspension.
With the machine in its permanent location, lower it so that its
height adjustment bolts rest on the six supplied cast iron level-
ing mounts, Figure 2.
Inspect the coolant tank and pump assembly in the RH cabi-
net, Figure 1-3. The tank may have become dislodged in ship-
ment. Level it if necessary.
Figure 1-2 Leveling mount
Check oil levels in all gearboxes before use

4Copyright © 2020 Quality Machine Tools, LLCPM-1440GT v9 2020-10
POWER CONNECTION
As shipped. the PM-1440GT is set for 220 V single or three-
phase.
Read Initial Checks, below, before connecting power
Remove the rear cover from the Left Hand cabinet (Headstock
Side). If the lathe did not come with a pre-installed power cord,
connect the right hand terminals, Figure 1-6, to the power
source using 12 AWG (minimum) 3-wire cord through a strain
relief bushing sized for the electrical box ports. For a single
phase installation, connect the power lines to terminals R and
S. For three-phase connection, there will be a T terminal in
addition to R and S, other wise it's the same, see Section 5
for more detail. Any power connection must be made by a li-
censed electrician, following all applicable codes.
INITIAL CHECKS
Read Section 3 if unsure about any item in the following
BEFORE connecting power, do the following:
1. Visually check the entire machine for possible distur-
bance in shipping, including the motor, Vee belts and
external gears under the belt cover left of the headstock.
Replace the belt cover.
2. Check oil level (sight glasses) in the headstock, the
saddle feed gearbox, and the apron. See Section 4.
3. If a chuck or faceplate is installed, check tightness of the
six Camlocks on the spindle nose, Section 3.
4. Set the speed selector gear levers to the lowest spin-
dle speed, 50 rpm. Make sure the gears are properly
meshed by "jiggling while shifting" — rotate the chuck
back and forth by hand while moving the levers into
position. Make certain that the motor control lever is set
to OFF, mid-travel, Figure 1-7.
Figure 1-4
Slide-out chip tray
LEVELING
Make sure the lathe is in its permanent location. The following
procedure ensures that the lathe bed is in the same state as it
was when the lathe was checked for accuracy in manufacture
— level from end to end along the bed, and from front to back.
In other words, no warping.
Make sure all leveling mounts and/or shims are properly
weight bearing, rmly in contact with the oor. Check and ad-
just level from end to end using a precision machinist’s level, if
available. If not, use the most reliable level on hand. Check and
adjust level front-to-back across the bed using a matched pair
of spacer blocks to clear the Vee tenons on the bed ways. The
blocks need to be at least 1/4 inch thick, ground or otherwise
accurately dimensioned. Alternatively, check for level on the
ground surface of the cross-slide as the carriage is traversed
from end to end. See also "Aligning the Lathe" in Section 4.
FOOTBRAKE & BELT COVER INTERLOCKS
The lathe will not run if the footbrake switch fails to close when
the foot treadle is released (brake OFF). This switch is locat-
ed inside the LH stand cabinet. Check that the D-shape cam
operates the switch when the treadle is pressed, Figure 1-5.
Do not change speed when the motor is running.
CLEANUP
Metal surfaces may have been protected by thick grease and/
or paper. Carefully remove these using a plastic paint scraper,
disposable rags and a light-oil such as WD-40.
CHIP TRAY
Check that the chip tray, Figure 1-4, can be pulled forward
without snagging coolant hoses and worklight wiring. Use ca-
ble ties if necessary.
Figure 1-5 Footbrake interlock switches
Figure 1-6 220 Vac input

5Copyright © 2020 Quality Machine Tools, LLCPM-1440GT v9 2020-10
Figure 1-7 Motor control lever
Mid-travel OFF, DOWN Forward, UP Reverse
Figure 1-8 Front panel controls
The Feed Direction knob is shown here in the neutral con-
dition (no feed), leadscrew and feed shaft disengaged.
5. Set the Feed Direction knob to its center (neutral)
position, Figure 1-8.
6. Check that there are no clamps or locks on moving parts.
7. Check that the footbrake treadle is released (UP).
8. Set the saddle and cross-slide to approximate mid-travel.
9. Connect and switch on 220 Vac power. The power lamp,
Figure 1-8, should light, unless a circuit breaker in the
electrical box has tripped.
10. Be sure the Emergency Stop (E-Stop) button has not
been pushed in (it should pop out when twisted clock-
wise).
11. Shift the motor control lever DOWN. The spindle should
turn Forward, counter clockwise, viewed at the chuck
(nose) end. The control system can be rewired for
DOWN = Reverse, see the electrical diagram, Section 5.
12. Check the emergency function by pressing the E-Stop
button. The motor should stop. If this doesn’t happen,
the E-stop function is defective, and needs attention.
13. Reset (twist) the E-Stop button to restore power.
14. Check that the footbrake stops the motor.
15. Return the motor control lever to OFF, mid-travel.
16. Shift the motor control lever UP. The spindle should
Reverse, clockwise rotation, viewed at the chuck (nose)
end. The control system can be rewired for UP = For-
ward, see the electrical diagram, Section 5.
OPTIONAL TEST RUN PROCEDURE
Run the spindle for a few minutes, forward and reverse, at a
selection of the available 12 speeds.
If desired, the saddle feed gearbox may also be run at this
time, but rst make certain that all components a󰀨ected have
been lubricated, then exercise the saddle and cross-slide
manually before power-feeding — see Section 3 for power
feed directions.
Precision Matthews recommends draining and relling all
three gearboxes (Headstock, Saddle Feed and Apron) af-
ter approximately 20 hours of initial run time. Lubricants
are specied in Section 4.
ALIGNING THE LATHE
The most important attribute of a properly set up lathe is its
ability to “machine parallel”, to cut a cylinder of uniform diame-
ter over its entire length. In other words, no taper.
Leveling of the lathe is a part of this, see earlier in this section.
Equally important is the alignment of the center-to-center axis
with the lathe bed, as seen from above. [Vertical alignment is
nowhere near as critical, rarely causing taper unless the lathe
is damaged or badly worn.] For more information see the nal
pages of Section 4, Servicing the Lathe.

6Copyright © 2020 Quality Machine Tools, LLCPM-1440GT v9 2020-10
Section 2 FEATURES & SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL PM-1440GT Lathe
PM-1440GT Floor plan: approximate dimensions (not to scale)
General information
The PM-1440GT is a high precision gap-bed lathe. With an all-up weight of 1750 lb, plus 12 spindle speeds from
50 to 2000 rpm, it is a robust heavy-duty machine designed for day-in, day-out use in production and in the larger
model shop. Two motor options are available: 2 HP (220 Vac 1Ø) or 3 HP (220 Vac 3Ø).
All major castings are in Meehanite FC-25 iron for the greatest rigidity and freedom from vibration. The spindle has
a 2-inch bore, and is unusually short — just 15-1/2 inches, ideal for through-spindle work such as gunsmithing. Long
service life is assured by high precision taper-roller spindle bearings, together with hardened and ground bed ways,
shafts and headstock gears. All gears in the machine are oil-bath lubricated.
A saddle-feed gearbox, together will a full set of external change gears, provides for a full range of U.S. threads
from 3 to 56 TPI, and metric threads from 0.4 to 7.2 mm pitch. Importantly, for inch threading there is rarely a need
to recongure the external gears — with just one exception (13 TPI), a single gear setup cuts all UNC and UNF
threads from 1/8” (#5) to 4” diameter (44 TPI to 4 TPI).
In addition to the thread-cutting leadscrew the saddle-feed gearbox drives an independent feed shaft that powers
both the saddle and cross-slide. A friction clutch allows the saddle to be stopped precisely at any point along the
bed. A treadle-operated drum brake stops the spindle instantly, even at the highest speeds. A circulating coolant
system is installed in the right hand stand cabinet.

7Copyright © 2020 Quality Machine Tools, LLCPM-1440GT v9 2020-10
Dimensions, approximate overall, incl. stand
Width 70 in. x Height 47 in. x Depth 29 in. (full range cross-
slide motion)
Footprint: 68 in. wide x 16-1/2 in. deep
Bed length, excluding headstock: 51 in.
Spindle centerline to oor: 43 in.
Weight, approximate:1750 lb net
Power requirement 220 Vac, 60 Hz, 1Ø, 13A max (option: 220 Vac, 3Ø, 9A max)
Motor TEFC type, 1725 rpm, optional 2 HP 1Ø or 3 HP, 3Ø
Work envelope
Headstock center to tailstock center 40 in. max
Swing over bed 14 in. diameter
Swing over cross-slide 8-3/4 in. diameter
Swing over gap 20-3/4 in. diameter
Gap insert length 7-3/4 in.
Spindle face to tailstock quill face 44 in. max
Saddle travel 36-1/4 in.
Cross-slide travel 6-1/2 in.
Compound (top slide) travel 3-1/2 in.
Drive system
Belt drive with 12-speed gearbox)
Low range, rpm 50, 70, 95, 140
Mid range 180, 250, 340, 510
High range, rpm 700, 980, 1350, 2000
Carriage drive, thread cutting Leadscrew 8 tpi
Inch threads Choice of 36, from 3 to 56 TPI
Metric threads Choice of 34, from 0.4 mm to 7.2 mm pitch
Saddle drive, turning operations Choice of feed rates from 0.0026 to 0.0368 in./spindle rev
Cross-slide drive, facing operations Choice of feed rates from 0.0013 to 0.0184 in./spindle rev
Spindle
Chuck/faceplate attachment D1-5 Camlock
Internal taper MT5-1/2
Spindle bore 2 in. diameter
Spindle length, LH end to chuck mounting face 15-1/2 in. overall
Spindle length, LH end to chuck face (typical) 19-1/2 in. approx.
Tailstock
Internal taper MT3
Quill travel 4 in.
Work holding (typical)
3-jaw chuck, 8 in.
4-jaw chuck, 8 in.
Faceplate
Center rest (steady rest) capacity Up to 3 in. diameter
Follower rest capacity Up to 1 in. diameter
PM-1440GT SPECIFICATIONS

8Copyright © 2020 Quality Machine Tools, LLCPM-1440GT v9 2020-10
Everyday precautions
• This machine is intended for use by experienced users familiar with met-
al-working hazards.
• Untrained or unsupervised operators risk serious injury.
• Wear ANSI-approved full-face or eye protection at all times when using the
machine (everyday eyeglasses are not reliable protection against ying parti-
cles).
• Wear proper apparel and non-slip footwear – be sure to prevent hair, cloth-
ing or jewelry from becoming entangled in moving parts. Gloves – including
tight-tting disposables – can be hazardous!
• Be sure the work area is properly lit.
• Never leave chuck keys, wrenches or other loose tools on the machine.
• Be sure the workpiece, toolholder(s) and machine ways are secure before
commencing operations.
• Use moderation: light cuts, low spindle speeds and slow table motion give
better, safer results than “hogging”.
• Don’t try to stop a moving spindle by hand – allow it to stop on its own.
• Disconnect 220 Vac power from the lathe before maintenance operations
such as oiling or adjustments.
• Maintain the machine with care – check lubrication and adjustments daily
before use.
• Clean the machine routinely – remove chips by brush or vacuum, not com-
pressed air (which can force debris into the ways).
No list of precautions can cover everything.
You cannot be too careful!

9Copyright © 2020 Quality Machine Tools, LLCPM-1440GT v9 2020-10
Section 3 USING THE LATHE
DRIVE TRAIN
Double-groove pulleys connect the motor to the gearbox, Fig-
ure 3-3. Belt tension will not usually require attention. If adjust-
ment is necessary, see Section 4.
What is not in this section ...
The PM-1440GT is a conventional engine lathe that requires
little explanation except for details specic to this particular
model — speed selection, thread cutting, and the saddle/
cross-slide power feed system. Because the user is assumed
to be familiar with general purpose metal lathes, this section
contains very little tutorial.
MOTOR CONTROLS Figure 3-1
Figure 3-1 Main control panel
Before doing ANYTHING, check the installation
instructions and power-up procedure in Section 1
STOP the motor before changing speed
Don't use JOG unless the gears are fully meshed
Figure 3-3 Vee belts & external change gears
Figure 3-2 Motor control lever
Mid-travel OFF, Down FORWARD, Up REVERSE
Before connecting power to the lathe, be sure the Motor Con-
trol Lever on the apron is set to OFF, Figure 3-2. Connect the
lathe to a 220 Vac outlet — the POWER lamp should light —
then operate the Motor Control Lever to run the spindle in the
desired direction.
Check that the E-Stop button and Footbrake interlocks func-
tion correctly.
Firm nger
pressure here
should deect
the Vee belt
about 1/4"
SPINDLE SPEEDS
The PM-1440GT has a twelve-speed headstock gearbox with
two shift levers, L-M-H & 1-2-3-4 (Speed Selection), Figure
3-1. Before changing speed, use the Motor Control, Figure
3-2, to STOP THE MOTOR, then move the shift levers to the
desired setting. This may need a little patience because it is
not always possible to go directly from one mesh to another.
Move the spindle back and forth by hand while trying to ease
the lever into its detent (meshed) position. Don’t use the JOG
button in this process — this may cause gear damage.
SPINDLE SPEED (RPM)
1 2 3 4
H RANGE 2000 1350 980 700
M RANGE 510 340 250 180
L RANGE 140 95 70 50

10 Copyright © 2020 Quality Machine Tools, LLCPM-1440GT v9 2020-10
CHUCKS & FACEPLATE
The spindle nose on the PM-1440GT accepts D1-5 Camlock
chucks, faceplates and other work holding devices.
A D1-5 chuck or faceplate is held by six threaded studs, each
with a D-shape crosscut to engage a corresponding cam in
the spindle nose, Figures 3-4, 3-5. The function of the cams is
to pull the chuck backplate inward to locate its internal taper
rmly on the spindle nose.
Alongside each stud is a stop screw, the head of which ts
closely in a groove at the threaded end of the stud. The func-
tion of the stop screw is not to clamp the stud in place, but
instead to prevent it from being unscrewed when the chuck is
out on the bench.
Figure 3-5 Camlock stud
TO INSTALL A CHUCK
Disconnect the 220V supply from the lathe!
D1-5 chucks and faceplates are heavy, some more than 30
lb. They will cause serious damage if allowed to fall. Even if a
chuck is light enough to be supported by one hand, the lathe
bed should be protected by a wood scrap, as Figure 3-6. Some
users add packing pieces, even custom-made cradles, to as-
sist “straight line” installation and removal.
Before installing make certain that the mating surfaces of the
chuck/faceplate and spindle are free of grit and chips.
The cams on the spindle are turned with a square-tip wrench
similar to the chuck key (may be same tool in some cases).
Recommended procedure:
1. Disconnect power from the machine. Then, select the high-
est spindle speed (2000 rpm) to allow easier hand rotation
of the spindle. (Alternatively, try moving the speed selec-
tion levers between detents to nd a “between teeth” con-
SADDLE FEED DIRECTION
The control knob with pointer below the speed selectors, Figure
3-1, determines whether the saddle feed is right to left — the
usual direction for turning and thread cutting — or reversed.
The selected direction applies to both the leadscrew and the
saddle/cross-slide power feed. Power feed is OFF when the
knob is at 12 o'clock position, as in the photo.
Before changing feed direction, STOP THE MOTOR. Hand-
turn (jiggle) the spindle while feeling for the mesh, as above.
To disengage the power feed, set the Saddle Feed lever to its
mid-position.
More information on the power feed system is provided later in
this Section, see Saddle Feed Gearbox.
Figure 3-4 D1-5 faceplate
All stop screws must be present & fully tightened!
Camlock action can jam any stud lacking a stop
screw — a serious problem.
JOG FEATURE
"Jog" is momentary-type push-button, active only if the Motor
Control lever is in the mid-travel (OFF) position, Figure 3-2.
Press the button briey to "nudge" the spindle forward by a
few degrees. Jog can be used to reposition the chuck and/or
workpiece, especially useful when low spindle-speed gearing
makes hand rotation di󰀩cult.
The control system can be rewired for "Reverse Jog", see the
electrical diagram, Section 5.

11 Copyright © 2020 Quality Machine Tools, LLCPM-1440GT v9 2020-10
Figure 3-7 Installing a Camlock chuck
Figure 3-8A Figure 3-8B
Both examples above show Cam in locked condition
THE SPINDLE MARKINGS ON YOUR LATHE MAY
VARY AS SHOWN ABOVE - Please match to your
spindle marking type. Cam Marker at 12 o'clock is
always unlocked. Cam Marker between 3 and 6 o'clock
is always locked - 3 to 6 o'clock is the only position
when the spindle may be rotated under power
TO REMOVE A CHUCK OR FACEPLATE
First, disconnect the power supply from the lathe!
Protect the lathe bed, as Figure 3-6. While supporting its
weight, turn each of the cams to 12 o’clock, Figure 3-7, then
remove the chuck. If the chuck does not come free, try tapping
the backplate gently with a soft (dead blow) mallet.
CROSS-SLIDE & COMPOUND
The cross-slide and compound have 10 TPI leadscrews, with
100-division graduated collars, Figure 3-9. Each division rep-
resents a “true” motion of 0.001”. On the cross-slide dial, only,
this shows as 0.002” per division, meaning that a 0.001” depth
of cut reduces the diameter of the workpiece by 0.002”.
The collars also have 127-division metric graduations, display-
ing "true metric" motion of 0.02 mm per division on the com-
pound, 0.04 mm on the cross-slide.
dition to disengage the gear train.)
2. Turn the spindle by hand, checking that all six cam markers
are at 12 o’clock, Figure 3-7.
3. While supporting its full weight, install the chuck with-
out tilting, then gently turn each of the cams clockwise —
Figure 3-6 Protect the lathe bed
snug, rm, but not locked in this rst pass.
4. Check that each of the cam markers lies between 3 and 6
o’clock, Figure 3-8.
5. If you are satised that all six cam markers are correctly
positioned, repeat the tightening sequence, Step 3, rst
with moderate force, then fully tighten.
If any cam marker is not past the 3 o'clock position, rst be
sure that there is no gap between chuck backplate and spin-
dle ange. Also, remove the chuck to inspect the studs — burrs
can be a problem, hone if necessary. If there are no visible
problems, the stud in question may need adjustment:
• Remove the stop screw from the stud.
• If the cam marker in question can’t get to 3 o’clock, back
the stud OUT one full turn, then replace the stop screw.
• If the cam marker goes beyond 6 o’clock, screw the stud IN
one more turn, then replace the stop screw.
• If the markers are correctly aligned, repeat the tightening
sequence as step 3, light force.
Figure 3-9 Cross-slide and compound dials
THE SPINDLE MARKINGS ON YOUR LATHE MAY
NOT BE AS SHOWN HERE — see gure 3-8A/B

12 Copyright © 2020 Quality Machine Tools, LLCPM-1440GT v9 2020-10
TAILSTOCK
The tailstock leadscrew has a 10 TPI thread, with 4 inch travel.
Inch and metric graduated collars on the tailstock handwheel
read 0.001” and 0.02 mm per division. A transverse slot at the
narrow end of the internal taper (MT3) provides clearance for
drills and other devices with tang ends. To remove tooling from
the tailstock taper turn the handwheel counter-clockwise (han-
dle end view) until resistance is felt, then turn the handle a little
more to eject the tool. Conversely, to install a taper tool make
certain that the quill is out far enough to allow rm seating.
For taper turning the tailstock may be o󰀨set by adjusting set
screws on either side, Figure 3-10. To move the tailstock to
the front, for instance, the screw on the lever side would be
unscrewed, then the opposing set screw would be screwed in
to move the upper assembly. Clamp screws hold the tailstock
rmly against a transverse rib in the base casting. Loosen
them if necessary to allow o󰀨setting.
A visual indication of the o󰀨set is provided by a scale on the
back surface, but this is not a reliable measure for precise
work. In practice, the only way to determine the o󰀨set precisely
is to "cut and try' on the workpiece, or scrap stock, homing in
on the correct degree of o󰀨set in small increments.
The same issues arise when re-establishing "true zero" of the
tailstock, in other words returning it to the normal axis for rou-
tine operations. One way to avoid cut-and-try is to prepare in
advance a bar of (say) 1" diameter quality ground stock, with
precise center drillings at both ends (do this by indicating for
zero TIR in a 4-jaw chuck, not in a 3-jaw unless known to be
predictably accurate). The prepared bar can then be installed
between centers and indicated along its length.
Figure 3-10 Tailstock
SADDLE FEED GEARBOX
Stop the motor before changing feed direction or rate
The saddle feed can be to the left, right, or disengaged, as
selected by the Saddle Feed knob on the main control panel,
Figure 3-1.
Figure 3-11 Saddle feed gearbox controls
ENGAGING THE POWER FEED
To activate the feed shaft set the upper lever on the gearbox,
Figure 3-11, to LETTER 'I' (selections P-Q-R-T are used only
for thread cutting).
The power feed lever on the apron, Figure 3-12, is active only
when the feed shaft is rotating (the split-nut lever engages
the leadscrew, and is typically used only for thread cutting).
When engaging power feed, move the lever gently, feeling
for the gears to mesh as you go. If the gears don’t engage at
the rst try, use the appropriate handwheel to jog the saddle
or cross-slide, whichever one you wish to move under power.
The split-nut lever — used for thread cutting — cannot be
engaged unless the power feed lever is NEUTRAL, neither
up or down.
The rate of power feed relative to spindle speed is set by the
lower lever on the gearbox, W-X-Y-Z, together with the "speed
doubler" knobs A-B and C-D. Feed rates are listed on the fol-
lowing page.

13 Copyright © 2020 Quality Machine Tools, LLCPM-1440GT v9 2020-10
Figure 3-12 Feed control levers on the apron
The split nut lever is used only for thread cutting. In the main photo the
power feed lever is in its neutral — disengaged — state. To power the
saddle (Longi), pull the lever OUT and UP, inset. To power the cross-
slide, push the lever IN and DOWN. Test for engagement/dis-engage-
ment by gently jiggling the saddle and cross-slide handwheels.
Gear
shifters I - W I - X I - Y I - Z
Saddle Cross-
slide
Saddle Cross-
slide
Saddle Cross-
slide
Saddle Cross-
slide
A - D 0.021 0.0105 0.0295 0.0148 0.0368 0.0184 0.0226 0.0113
B - D 0.0105 0.0053 0.0148 0.0074 0.0184 0.0092 0.0113 0.0057
A - C 0.0053 0.0027 0.0072 0.0036 0.0092 0.0046 0.0056 0.0028
B - C 0.0026 0.0013 0.0036 0.0018 0.0046 0.0023 0.0028 0.0014
Figure 3-14 lists inches of travel per revolu-
tion of the spindle, rounded to the nearest
0.001". Saddle motion is 2 times cross-slide
motion. In practice most users stay with only
the one gear shift setting, such as I-X, con-
trolling the feed rate by the "doubler knobs",
A-B and C-D. For an overall faster feed rate,
use I-Y.
SADDLE & CROSS-SLIDE FEED RATES
Use the same change gear setup as for TPI thread cutting
(30T upper/60T lower, following page
Figure 3-14 Power feed rates (inches per spindle rev)
FEEDSHAFT CLUTCH
The clutch shown in Figure 3-15 disengages the power feed if
the saddle or cross-slide hits an obstruction when power feed-
ing, thus minimizing the potential for damage. This could be
the result of either an accidental event, or deliberately stopping
the saddle at a precise location set by the stop, Figure 3-13.
The clutch comprises a pair of spring loaded steel balls bear-
ing on a detent disc driven by the saddle feed gearbox. Spring
pressure is adjusted by two set screws on either side of the
feed shaft, arrowed in Figure 3-15. Setting the spring pres-
sure is a process of aiming for the best compromise between
too high — damaging feed pressure — and too low, stopping
prematurely.
Setting the clutch to work reliably with the micrometer carriage
stop is a good example of such a compromise: start with low
spring force, then work up in small increments until the car-
riage stops in the same location (say ± 0.002”, assuming a
constant depth of cut and feed rate).
SADDLE STOP
The stop assembly, Figure 3-13, has a micrometer-style collar
graduated in 0.001 in. divisions. It can be clamped at any point
along the lathe bed (two M6 socket head screws on the under-
side secure the clamp plate to the block). Make certain that the
stop rod seats rmly on the saddle casting.
Figure 3-15 Feedshaft clutch
Figure 3-13 Saddle stop

14 Copyright © 2020 Quality Machine Tools, LLCPM-1440GT v9 2020-10
THREAD CUTTING
External change gears
The large gears in Figures 3-18 are transposing gears, 120T
and 127T. They allow a standard-thread leadscrew, in this
case 4 TPI, to cut metric threads. The transposing gears are
keyed together.
KEY FACTS TO REMEMBER ...
TPI threads
When congured for inch thread cutting (30T upper, 60T low-
er), with just one exception the lathe cuts all UNC and UNF
threads from 1/8” (#5) to 4” diameter, 44 TPI to 4 TPI, without
the need to change gears. The exception is 13 TPI, which re-
quires 65T as the lower gear.
For inch thread cutting, the 127T larger gear is simply an idler,
transferring the drive from the upper gear to the lower gear.
In this conguration, the spacer bushing is outside the lower
gear, as Figure 3-18.
Figure 3-16 
For all TPI threads (U.S.A.) the 127T gear is an idler between upper
and lower gears.
Gear swapping
Any change to the drive train typically calls for one or both
of the upper and lower gears to be exchanged for a larger or
smaller gear. This will require the transposing gear pair to be
repositioned. The procedure for this is:
Figure 3-18 External change gears
Gear shifters
P-X P-X Q-X T-Z R-X R-X Q-Z R-X R-W
er
gear 60 65 60 60 57 60 60 69 60
A-D 3 3-1/4 4 4-1/2 4-3/4 5 5-1/2 5-3/4 7
B-D 6 6-1/2 89 9-1/2 10 11 11-1/2 14
A-C 12 13 16 18 19 20 22 23 28
B-C 24 26 32 36 38 40 44 46 56
Figure 3-17 Threads per Inch (TPI)
1. Remove the M6 socket head screws from the upper
and lower gear shafts.
2. Remove the gears, washers, keys and bushing (lower
gear only).
3. While holding the gear support casting (quadrant) with
one hand, use a 19 mm wrench to loosen its anchor
nut. Allow the casting to swing downward.
4. Loosen the 19 mm hex nut securing the transposing
gears to the support casting.
5. Install the lower gear (for TPI threads the lower gear
spacer is outside, for metric threads, inside).
6. Bring the transposing gears into mesh with the lower
gear, trapping a scrap of bond paper (letter stock) be-
tween the two to hold them at the correct separation.
7. Tighten the transposing gears in position, then re-
move the paper. Check for working clearance be-
tween the gears.
8. Install the upper gear.
9. Swing the gear support casting upward to mesh the
127T gear with the upper gear, again using a paper
scrap for separation.
10.Tighten the gear support casting.
11. Lubricate the gears.
Metric threads
With the change gears supplied the lathe cuts all COARSE
metric threads from M3 to M36 (pitches 0.5 to 4.0 mm) and all
FINE metric threads from M4 to M100 (pitches 0.5 to 6.0 mm).
For metric thread cutting, the lower gear is driven by the 120T
transposing gear. In this conguration, not shown, the spacer
bushing is inside the lower gear.

15 Copyright © 2020 Quality Machine Tools, LLCPM-1440GT v9 2020-10
Figure 3-19 
For all metric thread pitches lower gear is driven by the smaller (120T)
transposing gear.
Gear shifters
R-W Q-W R-W Q-W R-W Q-X Q-W Q-X
Upper
gear 28 28 42 35 49 30 49 36
A-D 3.2 4.0 4.8 5.0 5.6 6.0 7.0 7.2
B-D 1.6 2.0 2.4 2.5 2.8 3.0 3.5 3.6
A-C 0.8 1.0 1.2 1.25 1.4 1.5 1.75 1.8
B-C 0.4 0.5 9.6 0.7 0.75 0.9
Figure 3-20 Metric thread pitches (mm)
COMPOUND SETUP FOR THREAD CUTTING
Thread cutting on the lathe is unlike most other turning oper-
ations, for two reasons: 1. The cutting tool must be precisely
ground with an included angle of 60 degrees for most Amer-
ican and metric threads, and; 2. It is preferable to feed the
tool into the workpiece at an angle so it cuts mostly on the left
ank of the thread, Figure 3-21. The correct angle relative to
the cross-slide (zero degrees) is debatable — should it be 29,
29-1/2 or 30 degrees? Many machinists prefer 29 degrees be-
cause it holds the cutting tool marginally clear of the right ank
of the thread, close enough for cleanup of the ank while at the
same time avoiding appreciable rubbing.
Figure 3-21 Setting up the compound for 30oinfeed
CUTTING PROCEDURE FOR TPI THREADS
This procedure assumes that a single point thread cutting tool
will be used, and that the threading dial assembly, Figure 3-22,
has been pivoted forward to engage its worm wheel with the
leadscrew.
The threading dial cannot used for metric threads! The
split-nut on the apron must be left engaged throughout
the entire process.
For metric and UNC/UNF threads the tool is ground to 60o (in-
cluded angle). It is installed so that its anks are exactly 30o
either side of the cross axis, ideally with the compound o󰀨-
set as Figure 3-21. Single-point threads are cut in 10 or more
successive passes, each shaving a little more material o󰀨 the
workpiece.
To make the rst thread-cutting pass the leadscrew is run at
the selected setting (tables on this, and preceding pages), and
the carriage is moved by hand to set the cutting tool at the
starting point of the thread. With the tool just grazing the work-
piece, the split-nut lever is lowered to engage the leadscrew.
This can be done at any point, provided the split-nut remains
engaged throughout the entire multi-pass thread cutting
process.
When the rst pass is completed, the tool is backed out clear
the workpiece (using the cross-slide), and the spindle is re-
versed to bring the saddle back to the starting point. The cross-
slide is returned to its former setting, then the tool is advanced
a few thousandths by the compound for the next pass. Each
successive pass is done in the same way, each with a slightly
increased infeed setting of the compound.
Many users working on U.S. threads save time by disengag-
ing the split-nut at the end of each cutting pass, reversing the
saddle by hand, then re-engaging, usually by reference to the
threading dial.
If the TPI number is divisible by 2 re-engagement can be done
at any line on the threading dial.
For all other TPI numbers every engagement, including the
rst, must at the point where a specic line on the threading

16 Copyright © 2020 Quality Machine Tools, LLCPM-1440GT v9 2020-10
USING THE THREADING DIAL
Referring to Figure 3-23, the general rules are:
1. Divide the TPI value by 2: If this gives an EVEN whole
number, example 12/2 = 6, re-engage at any line on the
dial, also mid-way between the lines. (This equates to the
16 choices on the dial plate, Figure 3-24.)
2. If the ÷ 2 result is an ODD whole number, examples 10/2
= 5, 14/2 = 7, re-engage at any line on the dial, but NOT
mid-way between the lines.
3. If the TPI value is a whole number not divisible by 2, ex-
ample 7, re-engage on the start line, or any line at right
angles to it.
4. If the TPI value is fractional, but becomes a whole number
when multiplied by 2, example 4-1/2, re-engage only on
the start line, or its diametrical opposite.
If in doubt, re-engage on the start line!
dial comes into alignment with the datum mark. If not, the sec-
ond and subsequent passes will be out of sync. In some cas-
es, Figure 3-23, there is a choice of lines for re-engagement,
but in every case the process calls for careful timing. [NOTE:
Disengagement and re-engagement of the split-nut is not ap-
plicable to metric threads].
Typical depths of cut per pass vary from an initial 0.005” or so,
to as little as 0.001”, even less. A nishing pass or two with
increments of only 0.0005” — or none at all, to deal with the
Figure 3-22 Threading dial
Figure 3-23 Threading dial visualization for selected U.S. threads
Minimize wear by swinging the dial indicator assembly away from
the leadscrew when not in use
spring-back e󰀨ect, can make all the di󰀨erence between a too-
tight thread and one that runs perfectly.
Assuming that the compound is set over at between 29 and
30 degrees, the total depth of cut is approximately 0.69 times
the thread pitch, P (this equates to a straight-in thread depth of
0.6 times P). There may be a need for a few thousandths more
in-feed than 0.69P, almost certainly not less.

17 Copyright © 2020 Quality Machine Tools, LLCPM-1440GT v9 2020-10
Figure 3-24 Threading dial plate
STEADY & FOLLOWER RESTS
The hinge-type steady rest, Figure 3-25, can be mounted any-
where along the lathe bed. It makes possible cutting opera-
tions on long, slender workpieces between centers, or held at
one end by chuck. The steady rest is often used in combina-
tion with the saddle-mounted follower rest, Figure 3-26.
Figure 3-25 Steady rest (representative)
To set the ngers on the workpiece, rst swing open the upper
casting. Make certain that all three ngers are freely adjustable
by thumbwheel. If not, loosen and re-lock the set screws (ar-
rowed). Raise the two lower ngers to just touch the workpiece
Figure 3-26 Follower rest (representative)
LOCKING THE SLIDES
When face-cutting large diameter surfaces, for instance, it is
often desirable to lock the saddle. Less frequently it can be
helpful to lock, or at least sti󰀨en, sliding motion of the cross-
slide and compound, Figure 3-27.
— not deecting it — then close and secure the upper casting.
Lower the top nger to just touch the workpiece, clamp the
frame, then apply oil at the point of contact.
The follower rest, Figure 3-26, is secured to the saddle with
two 8 mm socket head screws. Adjust the follower ngers as
described for the steady rest.
Figure 3-27 Saddle, cross-slide and compound locks

18 Copyright © 2020 Quality Machine Tools, LLCPM-1440GT v9 2020-10
GAP BED
A 7-3/4 inch long section of the bed at the headstock end can
be removed to allow turning of diameters up to 20-3/4 in., Fig-
ure 3-28.
To remove the gap insert back out the pusher screws one or
two turns, then remove the four large socket head screws se-
curing the insert to the bed. To minimize cosmetic damage, cut
through the paint and ller along the joint between insert and
bed using a sharp knife or pointed scraper.
Jack out the two taper pins using M5 screws and oversize col-
lars. Tap the insert free with a soft-face mallet.
Before re-installing the insert, be certain that all mating surfac-
es are scrupulously clean. Set the insert in place, lightly tap in
the two locating pins, then install the four large bolts (snug, but
not fully tightened). Jack the insert to the right with the pusher
screws to close the gap, if any, between the ground surfaces of
the bed ways at the join (a visible parting line is acceptable, but
a discontinuity that snags the saddle is not). If a satisfactory
join cannot be achieved, it may be necessary to remove and
reinstall the insert from scratch.
COOLANT SYSTEM
The coolant system is typically used with water-miscible
(emulsied) cutting uid. It can also be used with lightweight
neat cutting oil straight from the can. Synthetic cutting uids
are not recommended due to their potential for corrosion and
other undesirable e󰀨ects on the lathe and the coolant pump.
If you use water-miscible cutting uid, bear in mind that the
ratio of product to water is important — too much water causes
excessive corrosion and other problems. Check the mix from
time to time using a refractometer. If this is not available, make
up a small batch according to the product directions, then re-
place with a fresh batch when the old one becomes unusable
due to reduced performance, oil/water separation, or bad odor.
Disposal of used cutting uid can be a problem. It is about 95%
water, so its volume can be drastically reduced by evaporation
in an open tank. The residue may then be handled like any
other waste oil.
Figure 3-29 Coolant pump assembly, RH stand cabinet
Figure 3-28 Gap insert

19 Copyright © 2020 Quality Machine Tools, LLCPM-1440GT v9 2020-10
Figure 3-30 PM-1440GT Taper turning attachment
PM-1440GT TAPER TURNING ATTACHMENT
This is a toolroom-quality xture that can be retrotted to
any PM-1440GT lathe manufactured later than 2016. It is a
self-contained, center-pivoted design that is attached by a sin-
gle clamp at any point along the lathe bed. It handles tapers up
to 10 inches long, with half-angle from zero to +/- 10 degrees.
Taper angle is precisely settable by micrometer-style screw
adjustment.
Before installing the attachment, make certain that its two
sliding components — Dovetail slide and Follower carriage —
move freely without side play. Adjust the gibs and lubricate if
necessary.
Bear in mind that setting up any taper attachment is an iter-
ative, cut and try process. In particular, if you will be using
for reference a precision ground bar between centers, rst be
sure that the tailstock is zeroed accurately — no o󰀨set — be-
fore working on the taper attachment. The same applies to
copying the taper on existing tools, such as taper-shanked
reamers, many of which have center holes drilled both ends.
[Center-to-center alignment is not an issue if the reference
item can be held in a chuck, in which case it is only necessary
to adjust for zero runout at various points along the axis.]
When copying a reference taper, be sure that the indicator
probe is exactly at center height.
The taper attachment can remain in place for regular turning
operations — simply remove the draw plate and reconnect the
cross-slide leadscrew. (Alternatively, leave the attachment in-
tact, with the taper guide bar set for zero degrees; in this case
use the compound for tool control.)
Install the taper turning attachment as follows:

20 Copyright © 2020 Quality Machine Tools, LLCPM-1440GT v9 2020-10
Figure 3-31 Cross-slide leadscrew nut
1. Remove the socket head cap screw securing the cross-
slide leadscrew nut to the cross-slide body, Figure 3-31.
Push/pull the cross-slide a few times front to back to be
sure the no-longer-captive nut allows free movement
throughout the range called for by the taper attachment.
2. Make certain that the cross-slide gib is properly adjusted
for smooth motion without side play.
3. Because the cross-slide leadscrew is inoperative, the
compound is typically used to infeed the cutting tool. If the
infeed needs to be precisely controlled, set the compound
to 90 degrees.
4. Install the taper attachment base on the lathe carriage (4
socket head screws).
5. Install the draw plate on the cross-slide, with the two
round-head socket screws (1) snug but not tight.
6. Check the underside of the draw plate where it meets the
center post. It should touch the post with zero gap. Make
minor adjustments to the relative height of the attachment
base (4 screws), or pack with washers as necessary. (mis-
alignment here can impose a vertical load on the cross-
slide.)
7. Loosen the tie rod clamp screws, also the set screw se-
curing cam (5). Screw the tie rod into the slide.
8. Set the clamp assembly in the desired location on the rear
track of the lathe bed. Rotate the cam to raise or lower the
tie rod socket (4) as necessary.
9. Tighten the tie rod and clamp screws, then re-check the
center post/draw plate interface.
10. Set the draw plate as desired for the turning operation.
Tighten screws (1) and (2). Tighten the cam set screw.
11. Loosen screws (3), set the desired taper angle, see be-
low. Re-tighten the screws.
12. Use the carriage handwheel to run the lathe carriage
back and forth a few times, checking for smooth, consis-
tent functioning of both cross-slide and follower carriage.
There should be no change in load from one end of the
taper to the other.
13. With the workpiece installed engage carriage power feed
to cut the taper.
Setting the taper angle
No matter what method you use to set the taper angle, bear in
mind that all dial indicating should be done in one direction
only to eliminate backlash.
1. If you are using only the angle scale on the attachment
to set a taper, the taper guide bar needs rst to be ze-
roed relative to the lathe bed. Do this using a ground bar
between centers or in a chuck, see above, with a mag-
netic-based dial indicator positioned on the cross-slide so
that its probe runs on the bar. Adjust the taper angle for
zero deection along the length of the bar.
2. To cut a matching taper, use the same setup to indicate
the reference item, either between centers or held in the
chuck. Aim for zero deection as the probe traverses the
taper. This calls for patience — expect several iterations
to achieve this. Be sure the indicator probe is at center
height.