How to Make a Lathe Cam Lock

Lift the tailstock up off the ways of the engine lathe and place it on its side on a workbench. Depending on the size of the tailstock it can weigh a lot. If necessary, use a second person to help you lift the tailstock off the lathe.

Measure the hole on the size of the tailstock where the original cam lock went through the side. Use a pair of dial calipers for this. Select a bolt size that measures slightly larger than the hole̵7;s diameter.

Drill out the existing hole with an electric drill with the appropriate drill bit for the bolt you selected. For example, if you plan to use a three-quarter-inch diameter course thread bolt, you need to use an eleven-sixteenth-inch drill bit. Apply cutting oil to the drill bit to keep the bit lubricated while you cut. Most tailstocks are made of cast iron. Cast iron will dull a drill bit very quickly if you do not use cutting oil.

Place the correct tap into the tap wrench and then thread the hole with the tap wrench. Again, user cutting oil to keep the tap lubricated.

Place the tailstock back onto the ways on the engine lathe.

Thread the appropriate cap-head bolt into the hole. A cap-head bolt requires an Allen wrench for tightening. When you need to lock the tailstock in place, tighten the bolt with the Allen wrench. The bolt will press against the way on the engine lathe and lock the tailstock in place.