Because of my access to machine tools, where I can, I am fabricating my lathe as accurately as possible. Without doubt, a dovetail section cross slide is definitely going to be more accurate. Therefore I have machined my cross slide with dovetails and will cut a brass gib key for it.
The plate I have used is 20mm x 140mm X 650mm long. I am making a long cross slide because I intend to mount a grinder on the back from time to time as well as use it for milling applications. Progress for me is slow! The materials here in Africa are expensive. This month I bought that steel, some of the other cross slide steel and the chip board for making the shuttering for the concrete main frame. That used an eighth of my disposable monthly salary!
The plate I have used is 20mm x 140mm X 650mm long. I am making a long cross slide because I intend to mount a grinder on the back from time to time as well as use it for milling applications. Progress for me is slow! The materials here in Africa are expensive. This month I bought that steel, some of the other cross slide steel and the chip board for making the shuttering for the concrete main frame. That used an eighth of my disposable monthly salary!