Smithy MIDAS MI-1220 LTD, Operator'S Manual, Page: 11 / 133

Chapter 3
Caring For Your Machine
Your machine is a delicate, precision tool with hardened ways and hand-scraped bearing
surfaces under the table and carriage. Any rust spot or battering of the ways, any chips
or grit between close-fitting parts, will affect the accuracy of this fine tool. Follow these
guidelines whenever you use your Smithy machine:
1.
When you finish working, wipe machined surfaces with a clean, oily rag. Never leave
the machine without this thin film of protective oil all over parts that might rust,
especially ground finished parts.
2.
Never lay wrenches, cutting tools, files, or other tools across the ways of your lathe.
The slightest dent or burr will impair its accuracy.
3.
Before inserting collars, centers, adapters, or drawbar attachments in either the
spindle or tailstock spindle, wipe them a clean, oily rag. Also, wipe all internal surfaces
carefully with an oily rag on a ramrod. Chips or dirt on the centers or in the spindle nose
can scratch or mark surfaces and interfere with the assembled part’s alignment.
4.
Lubricate the machine before each use as seen on Section 5.4.
5.
Use good 10W 30 weight non-detergent oil on your machine.
6.
Cover your machine to protect it from dust and moisture.
Note:
An old machinist trick is to leave camphor in the toolbox and on the machine to
prevent rust. Newer compounds that also protect machines that will unused for some
time are BoeShield, developed by the Boeing Company and CRC Lubricants. There are
also specialty oils that may be purchased.
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