File JRRUnknownLathe.txt Regarding .JPG files JRRUnknownLathe0001 thru 0007.
Dated April 7, 2005 by John R. Ruth e-mail JohnRRuth@hotmail.com

Here are seven "mug-shot" photos of an unidentified lathe in my possession.

The ONLY identifying mark I can see is a casting mark "P17" on the compound,
near the slot for the toolpost. (The mark is visible in photo 
JRRUnknownLathe0002.jpg,
but is not legible in that photo.

For scale, the chuck is a 6". Bed is about 5 feet long.

I have been unable to match this lathe to any pictures in the book
"American Lathes 1810-1910" by Kenneth L. Cope
(Available from Astralgalpress.com, and highly recommended.)

Note that the original lead screw is GONE, replaced by a makeshift threaded 
rod!

Distinguishing marks are:

1) Tumble reverse lever is outboard of the outer spindle bearing, but the 
reverse gears
themselves are inboard.

2) Tailstock - note the decorative ring near the handle. I took two
pictures of the tailstock, as I think this is the best clue.

3) Tee slots in top of carriage for using the lathe with a boring bar 
between centers.

4) Look at the apron. Do you recognize that layout?

5) She originally had brass oilers with glass reservoirs.

If you can provide any clues as to what make of lathe this might be, please 
e-mail me at

johnrruth@hotmail.com

Thanks! John R. Ruth