I kinda cleaned up my lathe today. I didn't do a strip cleaning but I don't think I will paint it. I am missing the rod that knocks whatever you have in the headstock out. The cup center must be a MT#1 because it's too small. I am assuming it should be a #2. There are no markings to tell what size it is. So where is a good place on the net to buy lathe things? I also need some cutting tools and I think I would like the new carbide cutters. I don't want to get into sharpening because that can run into a lot of money and it adds another learning curve

 

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The lathe cleaned up nicely.  The head stock and tail stock should both be #2 Morse taper.  If it is loose for the tail stock try cranking it out some.  You will find some tapers are longer than others and the longer ones hit the crank/adjustment screw.  Cranking it out gives it the room it needs.  The screw hitting the end it what pushes it out when you need it out.  There is no knock out rod for the tail stock but you will need one for the head stock.  A 3/8" rod from the hardware store should work fine for the head stock.

That cleaned up beautifully!

 

For carbide tools, you can't do better than Easy Wood Tools. They stay sharper longer and virtually no learning curve. Depending on what you turn, they may be the only tools you need. Check their website for specifics. 

A lot of these old lathes were intended for spindle turning and has #1 morse taper and they may be hard to find . Look on Ebay if you do not find a taper you can get a reducer to go from #2 to a #1.

    If you just want carbide cutters try http://eddiecastelin.com/home_base

or http://www.carbidedepot.com/

   For other things Packard is a good place or Craft Supplies. Beyond that for specific items may have to go other places.

   By the way the lathe cleaned up so good I agree do not repaint.

Not sure of the quality but azcarbide.com has the carbide cutters for around $3 to $4 each.

Thanks, guys there is some good information here.

 

Don