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9:16 PM
January 18, 2012
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Footnote to my last: Any good quality machine tap, a 1/4ins. or larger,should have centre dimples,at least on the 'handle' end.
Swarfie.
12:35 PM
February 10, 2011
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You're right but I'd add some caution to that method. Some smaller size taps can be easily broken if the user is detached from the feel of them going in. So if your chuck is of similar size to the length of a suitable tap wrench then the feel can be maintained, as the lever advantage will be similar, but if is a big chuck and a tiny tap/wrench then it may be better to monitor the tap's progress directly as it could easily snap under the mechanical advantage. So sometimes it can be a balancing act between holding the tap wrench by hand, instead of letting it rest on the bed, whilst turning the chuck (if you can't swing the wrench fully), and keeping the tailstock in contact. This can be where a sprung tapping centre can be very useful.
8:05 AM
September 1, 2012
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Brownell's the gun parts people, sell a set if disks for a few bucks that work well for the tail stock alignment issue. They are hardened and ground for accuracy but It would not be too difficult to make your own if you have the time. These will show is alignment at any point in the 360° plane. Imagine two disks .750" diameter with a 60° center in each. Place a good dead center in both head and tail stock. Slide the two together and measure the outside with a micrometer. Any deviation in any direction will be readily apparent. When it is .750" all the way round you are "dead on" mate.
SIMPLE-CHEAP-EASY-FAST
Some words to live by!
Now, back to mak'in SWARF! 
8:13 AM
September 1, 2012
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Jerry said
You're right but I'd add some caution to that method. Some smaller size taps can be easily broken if the user is detached from the feel of them going in. So if your chuck is of similar size to the length of a suitable tap wrench then the feel can be maintained, as the lever advantage will be similar, but if is a big chuck and a tiny tap/wrench then it may be better to monitor the tap's progress directly as it could easily snap under the mechanical advantage. So sometimes it can be a balancing act between holding the tap wrench by hand, instead of letting it rest on the bed, whilst turning the chuck (if you can't swing the wrench fully), and keeping the tailstock in contact. This can be where a sprung tapping centre can be very useful.
Quick note; A ratcheting tap handle is very handy in this situation. Also, the reversing function is sweet
Now back to "mak'in SWARF",
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