Well I managed to get back into the workshop this morning and decided that I would start on the last camshaft for the Seal engine since the lathe was still set up for the cam turning fixture. With the half turned practice blank that will make nearly 4 camshafts now made. Two proper camshafts made from Stainless Steel and another made from BMS which I intend to try and harden. If it works I may use it as a comparator in one of the engines. If it doesn't work, well I will have learnt from that as well.

I am going to write a large lettered poster for the workshop saying “If it looks or feels wrong then it IS! Investigate as to why before continuing!”  I may produce a dozen copies and post them all around the workshop and maybe have it tattooed to the inside of my eyelids as well.

I did have a few set up problems with the camshaft fixture turning true. I must be learning something though because it took me less time than usual to find the culprit. My tail stock also swivels around the locking point located centrally. I couldn't see to begin with why, when I was off setting the tail stock, the live centre did not follow, indeed it was going the other way! It was only when I lent on it that it revolved! Doh.

Hopefully tomorrow I shall complete the camshaft and then I can get my lathe back.

Well another lesson learned and mystery solved. It brought to mind all the times when 'something' wasn't right and in the past I have not investigated fully. Its only since the rebuild of the Myford ML7 that I have been far more investigative with good benefits resulting. So the new motto will hopefully serve to 'help' me. Time will tell.