How to Mount a Log on a Lathe
- 1). Determine the longest length and largest diameter of log that will fit your lathe between centers. Refer to your lathe's operating manual if needed. This will be your maximum size log to mount and turn.
- 2). Cut the appropriate size diameter log to length using a chainsaw.
- 3). Remove all bark from the log using a mallet and chisel, or a draw-knife. After de-barking, inspect the surface of the log for any embedded nails or metal. Remove if needed.
- 4). Turn the log on one end and mark the center of the largest diameter of a rough circle with an "X" at the pith. Flip the log over and repeat the procedure on the opposite end. If a large portion of the log falls outside the circle, then remove as much of the excess as possible with the chainsaw to create a more balanced rough cylinder.
- 5). Move the tailstock of the lathe to the maximum safe distance from the headstock. Insert the live center in the tail-stock and the drive spur in the head-stock.
- 6). Lay the log between the centers of your lathe. Move the the end of the log, near the head-stock, as close to the drive spur as possible. Move the tail-stock toward the end of the log, stopping within an inch of the live center and lock in place.
- 7). Lift the end of the log near the head-stock and push the log onto the point of the drive spur at the "X" you marked previously. Press the log into the drive spur as far as it will go.
- 8). Lift the tail end of the log with your left hand until the "X" you marked previously on this end of the log aligns with the tip of the live center. Turn the wheel of the tail-stock until the point of the live center pushes into the log.
- 9). Rotate the log by hand to check for center, balance and clearance. Adjust if necessary. When satisfied, turn the wheel of the tail-stock clockwise as can be hand-tightened, driving the head of the log into the drive spur. You are now ready to turn the log on the lathe.