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There is a unique satisfaction that comes with making a jig. Most can be purchased and they are not always so expensive but whenever I use a jig that I made, I get a tiny bit more satisfaction from the project. I have been turning some thin spindles but the vibration was becoming a problem so I made this spindle steady jig for my Jet lathe. I purchased the wheels from Rockler ($1.99 each and free shipping) and used an Incra t track ($12). The rest I made from some spare plywood lying around the garage. The pinch bracket holds the rest rock solid. Thanks for looking.

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Great job Todd
 

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I like the mag wheels on the tires!!!
 

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Nice steady rest. Still on my to do list.
 

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Nice steady rest. I like the idea of the tracks, that should work well.
For the wheels did you consider looking at the inline skate wheels. The reason that I mention the skate wheels is because they have a sharper edge, and the ones in the picture look kind of flat. I have not made one yet, and I figured if I need one I would make one. I already have the wheels from an old set of skates.
 

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Very nice steady rest. You appreciate it more if you make it yourself-always!!!!!
Using that T slot material is a real good idea. I may convert to that for my small diameters!
 

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Mel, it is Interesting that you mention the "flat" wheels. They actually were originally pointed but I turned them flat on the lathe for two reasons. The first is that I thought they were too big. I took approximately 1/2 inch off each wheel. This allows them to fit smaller spindles. The second is that I thought a flat wider surface would give better support.
 

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Nice job Todd, always a good feeling to "make your own" way around a project & as you say that extra bit of satisfaction. The other advantage of the flat wheels (as long as you don't have sharpe edges) is you lessen the chance of 'bearing" marks on your work, Looks like it will get the business done no problems. : ))
well done.
(as Matt says "nice mags')
 

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nothing like homemade tools to work with :)

thank´s for sharing
Dennis
 

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Great idea with the t track
 

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Todd, it's a beautiful tool. Great job.
 

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Pete, I sanded down the wheels to a 600 grit so they are as smooth as a baby's bottom. I tested one piece and the jig held it tight with no wheel marking.
 

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I made one like this 3 years ago and now with your addition I can make revision 3.1 to mine. I also use skate wheels, and yes they can leave a black smudge on the wood. The fix for that is use claear ply wheels instead of the black ones. You can also get used skates at Goodwill for about $2 a pair. The T bar is a stroke of genius. I cut mine out of ironwood but after a while they crack. I thought about using an automotive alternator bracket but your use of a T bar is SO much better. Your bearings on the wheels will give out before the tires do. I also like your squeeze type hold down. Much easier then what I have now (but not for long, version 3.1 is on the way).
Thanks for sharing

Jim
 

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I have been looking for a good design for a shop made steady rest - thanks! This looks like it.

All the best

Don
 

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Wow, another lesson learned, thanks for the info on what shape to make the wheels Todd, and the reason for a less pointed wheel Pete. I have all the pieces in place now, and when I need a steady rest it will not be as much trial and error making one that works the first time.
Thanks
 
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