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As
a marine carpenter and artist, I needed a machine that would
hold up to a salty environment and look good at boat-show
demonstrations. Since I make marine models and sculptures,
jewellery and fine metal work, I needed a precision machine.
I also wanted it to be eye-catching. Rebuilding the 65-year-old
original machine for my son gave me the incentive to build
another piece of equipment worthy of display.
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A fishing chair model made by the author.
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I
started construction using a band-sawn frame of teak plywood,
laminated in three pieces to prevent warping. I used 1/2"
sides and a 3/4" core. I added a scissor-like upper-arm
receiver. The 3" rosewood contact pulleys made with a
hole saw were trued, bored and balanced on my lathe with a
slight crown to aid in tracking. Bearing recesses were cut
into the frame with a circle cutter using a center pilot hole.
I used a 1/2" stainless-steel rod for the main drive
shaft. Balanced steel pulleys and a link-belt limit the vibration.
A 1725 rpm 1/2 hp motor mounted on a teak and cork base helps
lessen noise and frame resonance. The two axis-tilting tables
accommodate thick belts and angles up to 45°.
The table is made of laminated teak and holly, bordered with
rock maple and keyed-in rosewood corners for strength and
beauty. The 10"x17" base matches the worktable.
I used aluminum to edge all working surfaces for longevity.
All wiring is hidden and a forward-mounted rocker switch is
user friendly. I used polished stainless-steel fastenings.
Rosewood washers and accents provide what I think is a nice
extra touch. The stainless-steel ball bearings I used throughout
should give a lifetime of service. Several coats of varnish
and a compression spring for the upper arm completed the project.
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