Tyme Gem (Little Gem) lathe

[okeydokey]

Hi I have had one of these variable speed lathes hidden on a shelf in my garage for years, works perfectly. Does anyone have a manual, list of parts or other info about this super little lathe. Anybody use one - penmaking seems a good task for it.
The bed bars are a bit rusty so maybe I will get some more its square section, again if someone has the specs or has changed them please let me know was it a hassle - easy or leave it well alone? thanks

 

[Paul Hannaby]

I used to have one of these. I think the spindle thread was M20 x 2.5mm which was an odd one. Some of the Tyme cub lathes also had the same thread. They were good for pens and small things and had a top speed of 5000 rpm.

Could you just clean up the bed bars with a little sanding?

 

[okeydokey]

Hi Paul
Thanks for the info - yes it might be that a bit of wet and dry will make it sparkle again (Gem - joke ha ha !)
but it will still have 'that look' compared with a nice bit of new square section. Maybe I will see if I can get some ? I wonder if stainless is available or would do the job.
Do you have any paperwork/manuals and stuff? cheers

 

[Paul Hannaby]

No manuals I'm afraid. I didn't have one when I had the lathe either.

 

[Rhossydd]

but it will still have 'that look' compared with a nice bit of new square section.

Do you want a serviceable tool or an ornament ?
Unless you have some serious rust and pitting, some wet & dry will do the job just fine with some protective wax when finished. As long as the banjo moves smoothly the surface colour isn't important.

 

[okeydokey]

Good point

 

[NazNomad]

They were last made by Multico Ltd, Paragon House, Flex Meadows, The Pinnacles, Harlow, Essex CM19 5TJ
Tel: 01279 444212

Worth a call ... if you don't ask, you don't get.

 

[okeydokey]

Hi Naz thanks - have tried phone varying times from 0815 till 10.00 no reply, I guess they are gone shame...

I will try the wet and dry but if I can end up with a serviceable tool and an "ornament" by swapping the bars at low cost I might do that. I've found a steel stockholders nearby who do offcuts and being a family firm might be able to sort me out/advise best