Indexing
The indexer makes it possible to cut evenly
spaced features in a workpiece while keeping the
lathe headstock spindle locked; for example,
when cutting flutes on a spindle blank with a
router, while the spindle blank is secured within
the lathe centers.
T
here are 12 holes in the spindle collar spaced
30° apart, and 4 holes in the headstock casting
which accept the index pin (see Figures 27 & 28).
The combination of these holes will allow you to
mark your workpiece for evenly spaced features.
1. T
o use the indexer, thread the index pin
(Figure 27) into one of the four holes until th
e
i
ndex pin engages the spindle and prevents it
from turning. This will be your first indexing
position.
2. Unscrew and remove the index pin, and look
down the hole, carefully counting the number
of holes as you rotate the spindle. Continue
to rotate the spindle until you reach the hold
needed for your second flute cutting, then re-
insert the index pin.
3. Refer to the chart on page 15 to determi
ne
w
hich holes to place the index in relative t
o
t
he number of flutes desired in your
workpiece.
Figure 27
F
igure 28
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