TROUBLESHOOTING
10
PROBLEM
CAUSE
SOLUTION
Motor or
spindle stalls or
will not start
Excessive
vibration
Tools tend
to grab or dig in
Tailstock
moves when
applying pressure
Excessive cut
Reduce depth of cut
Adjust or replace belt
Replace bearing
Replace spindle bearings
Replace drive belt
Place lathe on flat surface
Keep tools sharp
Reposition tool rest height
Reposition tool rest closer to workpiece
Use correct tool for operation
Tighten cam lock nut
Improper belt adjustment, or worn belt
Worn spindle bearing
Worn spindle bearing
Worn drive belt
Lathe on uneven surface
Dull tools
Tool rest set too low
Tool rest set too far from work piece
Improper tool being used
Cam lock nut needs adjusting
Workpiece warped, out of round, has major
flaw, or was improperly prepared for turning
Correct problem by planning
or sawing workpiece, or discard
entirely and use new workpiece
Remove tailstock and clean surfaces
with a cleaner. Re-apply light coat
of oil to lathe bed surface
Lathe bed and tailstock mating
surfaces are greasy or oil
