Coronet no 1 tool rest banjo

[macke]

I am new to woodturning and have acquired an old Coronet No. 1 lathe. The motor was shot and now replaced, but I still cannot use it because the tool rest banjo is broken. I have tried the usual sources and put up with the usual jokes (5 or 6 string etc.) but cannot find one. Welding has been tried, but not successfully. Seems my new adventure is doomed to failure. Any ideas anyone?
Macke

 

[AJB Temple]

My ex FIL used to produce cast iron and the general view was that welding (usually arc with nickel) screws it up. Needs very high temperature (1300 degrees) fusion welding from the off to be successful I believe.

Try these guys: http://www.smallcastings.co.uk

You may find casting a one off new one is your best bet if you can't find one second hand.

 

[woodpig]

Would a Record Banjo work as these are freely available as a spare part?

 

[dickm]

Coronet lathes of that series are identical with the Records, which initially at least were just repainted Coronets. So the Record banjo should be identical.
Surprised welding didn't work. If a cack-handed welder like myself can do it reasonably successfully..........

 

[marcros]

could you use a metal adhesive? may be worth a go, although if the record one is readily available, hardly worth the effort.

 

[Jacob]

I thought brazing for cast iron. I've seen broken plane bodies successfully brazed.

 

[SVB]

I'd be tempted to look into the record option first. Quite a lot of shock / dynamic load when turning (especially when learning :shock: ) - welding / brazing can cause local changes to hardness etc that could result in sudden failure. Better to replace if possible.

Simon