General 25-300QC M1 User Manual

SETUP & OPERATION MANUAL

FEATURES

Heavy-duty cast-iron bed for stability and minimal vibration.

Heavy-duty cast-iron stand.

Headstock pivots 360° with positive stops at 45°, 90°, 135° and 180° for multi-position outboard turning.

2 variable speed ranges: 170 to 1200 RPM & 500 to 3600 RPM.

Digital spindle speed (RPM) display.

Quiet, highly efficient, low power consumption motor, with forward or reverse rotation.

Includes one 110 V (15 A) socket for onboard accessory use.

Flexible gooseneck style work light.

11 ½″ tool rest and a 3″ face plate included.

Features positive spindle indexing in 10° increments - total 36 index positions.

SPECIFICATIONS

14” x 30” WOOD LATHE

SPINDLE SPEED (variable) 170 to 1200 rpm & 500 to 3600 rpm

SWING OVER BED 14″ (356 mm)

SWING OVER TOOL REST 10″ (254 mm)

DISTANCE BETWEEN CENTERS 30″ (762 mm)

SPINDLE THREAD 1″ (25.4 mm) - 8 tpi

TAILSTOCK THROUGH HOLE ⅜″ (10 mm)

MORSE TAPER MT #2

SPINDLE CENTER LINE TO FLOOR 44 ½″ (1130 mm)

SELF EJECTING TRAVEL 3″ (76 mm)

HEADSTOCK MOVEMENT Pivot to 45°, 90°, 135° & 180°

TOOL REST 11 ½″ (292 mm)

FACE PLATE 3″ (76 mm)

INDEXING POSITIONS 36 x 10°

OVERALL DIMENSIONS 16″ x 57″ x 47 ⅝″ (410 x 1450 x 1210 mm)

MOTOR 1 HP, variable speed, 8 A, DC motor

INPUT POWER 110 V, 1 Ph only

WEIGHT 385 lbs (175 kg)

(l x w x h)

MODEL

#25-300QC M1

Version 1_Revision 2 - March 28/13 (s/n 25951212)

GENERAL® INTERNATIONAL

8360 Champ-d’Eau, Montreal (Quebec) Canada H1P 1Y3

Telephone (514) 326-1161 • Fax (514) 326-5555 • www.general.ca

THANK YOU for choosing this General

International model 25-300QC M1 14" x 30" Wood Lathe. This wood lathe has been carefully tested and inspected before shipment and if properly used and maintained, will provide you with years of reliable service. To ensure optimum performance and trouble-free operation, and to get the most from your investment, please take the time to read this manual before assembling, installing and operating the unit.

The manual’s purpose is to familiarize you with the safe operation, basic function, and features of this wood lathe as well as the set-up, maintenance and identification of its parts and components. This manual is not intended as a substitute for formal woodworking instruction, nor to offer the user instruction in the craft of woodworking. If you are not sure about the safety of performing a certain operation or procedure, do not proceed until you can confirm, from knowledgeable and qualified sources, that it is safe to do so.

Once you’ve read through these instructions, keep this manual handy for future reference.

Disclaimer: The information and specifications in this manual pertain to the unit as it was supplied from the factory at the time of printing. Because we are committed to making constant improvements, General International reserves the right to make changes to components, parts or features of this unit as deemed necessary,without prior notice and without obligation to install any such changes on previously delivered units. Reasonable care is taken at the factory to ensure that the specifications and information in this manual corresponds with that of the unit with which it was supplied.

However, special orders and “after factory” modifications may render some or all information in this manual inapplicable to your machine. Further, as several gene-

rations of this model of wood lathe and several versions of this manual may be in circulation, if you own an earlier or later version of this unit, this manual may not depict your machine exactly. If you have any doubts or questions contact your retailer or our support line with the model and serial number of your unit for clarification.

GENERAL®& GENERAL®INTERNATIONAL WARRANTY

ll component parts of General®, General® International and Excalibur by General

A International ® products are carefully inspected during all stages of production and each unit is thoroughly inspected upon completion of assembly.

Limited Lifetime Warranty

Because of our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, General® and General® International agree to repair or replace any part or component which upon examination, proves to be defective in either workmanship or material to the original purchaser for the life of the tool. However, the Limited Lifetime Warranty does not cover any product used for pro-

fessional or commercial production purposes nor for industrial or educational applications. Such cases are covered by our Standard 2-year Limited Warranty only. The Limited Lifetime Warranty is also subject to the “Conditions and Exceptions” as listed below.

Standard 2-Year Limited Warranty

All products not covered by our lifetime warranty including products used in commercial, industrial and educational applications are warranted for a period of 2 years (24 months) from the date of purchase. General® and General® International agree to repair or replace any part or component which upon examination, proves to be defective in either workmanship or material to the original purchaser during this 2-year warranty period, subject to the “conditions and exceptions” as listed below.

To file a Claim

To file a claim under our Standard 2-year Limited Warranty or under our Limited Lifetime Warranty, all defective parts, components or machinery must be returned freight or postage prepaid to General® International, or to a nearby distributor, repair center or other location designated by General® International. For further details call our service department at 1-888949-1161 or your local distributor for assistance when filing your claim.

Along with the return of the product being claimed for warranty, a copy of the original proof of purchase and a“letter of claim” must be included (a warranty claim form can also be used and can be obtained, upon request, from General® International or an authorized distributor) clearly stating the model and serial number of the unit (if applicable) and including an explanation of the complaint or presumed defect in material or workmanship.

CONDITIONS AND EXCEPTIONS:

This coverage is extended to the original purchaser only. Prior warranty registration is not required but documented proof of purchase i.e. a copy of original sales invoice or receipt showing the date and location of the purchase as well as the purchase price paid, must be provided at the time of claim.

Warranty does not include failures, breakage or defects deemed after inspection by General® or General® International to have been directly or indirectly caused by or resulting from; improper use, or lack of or improper maintenance, misuse or abuse, negligence, accidents, damage in handling or transport, or normal wear and tear of any generally considered consumable parts or components.

Repairs made without the written consent of General® Internationallwill void all warranty.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Rules for safe operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Electrical requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Grounding instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Circuit capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Extension cords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Identification of main parts

and components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Basic functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Unpacking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

List of contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Changing spindle speed range . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Tool rest carriage & swivel arm and tool rest

djustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

a Mounting & removing the headstock spur

center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Mounting & removing the tailstock live center . .15

Moving tailstock quill in / out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Tailstock movement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Mounting a workpiece to the face plate . . . . . . .16

Pivoting the headstock (for outboard turning) . .16

Checking alignment between centers . . . . . . . .17

Indexing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Periodic Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Recommended optional accessories . . . . .18

Wiring Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Clean up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Placement within the shop / Lifting and

handling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Placement within the shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Lifting and handling the machine . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

9-10

Assembly instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-11

Repositionning the headstock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Install the belt tension release lever . . . . . . . . . . .10

Install the tool rest swivel arm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Basic adjustments & controls . . . . . . . .11-17

Connecting to a power source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Worklight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

On/off power switch with safety key . . . . . . . . . . .12

Spindle direction switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Starting / Stopping the lathe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Changing spindle speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Parts list & diagrams . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20-25

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

To help ensure safeoperation, please take a moment tolearn the machine’s applications andlimitations, as well as poten-

ial hazards. General® International disclaims any real or implied warranty and holds itself harmless for any injury that

t may result from improper use of its equipment.

2. Before turning on the wood lathe, make sure the

. Do not operate the wood lathe when tired, distrac-

ted, or under the effects of drugs, alcohol or any medication that impairs reflexes or alertness.

2. The working area should be well lit, clean and free of debris.

3. Keep children and visitors at a safe distance when the wood lathe is in operation; do not permit them to operate the wood lathe.

workpiece is securely installed between centers and that all locking levers and moveable or removable parts are tightened down and secured.

13. Adjust the cutting tool parallel and as close as possible to the workpiece and, before starting the lathe, turn the workpiece by hand, at least one full rotation to make sure that it does not come in contact with the cutting tool.

4. Childproof and tamper proof your shop and all machinery with locks, master electrical switches and switch keys, to prevent unauthorized or unsupervised use.

5. Stay alert! Give your work your undivided attention. Even a momentary distraction can lead to serious injury.

6. Fine particulate dust is a carcinogen that can be hazardous to health. Work in a well-ventilated area and whenever possible use a dust collector and wear eye, ear and respiratory protection devices.

7. Do not wear loose clothing, gloves, bracelets, necklaces or other jewelry while the wood lathe is in operation. Wear protective hair covering to contain long hair and wear non-slip footwear.

8. Be sure that adjusting wrenches, tools, drinks and other clutter are removed from the machine before operating.

9. Keep hands well away from the spindle, the spin ning workpiece, and all moving parts. Use a brush, not hands, to clear away chips and dust.

10. Do not use stock containing defects such as checks, splits, cracks, knots or foreign objects. Before starting, inspect stock and remove all foreign objects such as dirt, nails, staples or any object that could damage a tool or become dislodged and fly free and cause injury.

11. Select appropriate turning speed for the size and type of workpiece being turned and use lowest speed when starting a new workpiece.

14. Maintain turning tools with care. Keep turning tools sharp and clean for best and safest performance.

15. Avoid working from awkward or off balance positions. Do not overreach and keep both feet on floor.

16. Keep guards in place and in working order. If a guard must be removed for maintenance or cleaning be sure it is properly re-attached before using the tool again.

17. Use of parts and accessories NOT recommended by

GENERAL INTERNATIONAL

ment malfunction or risk of injury.

18. Never stand on machinery. Serious injury could result if the tool is tipped over.

19. Always disconnect the tool from the power source before servicing, changing accessories, performing any maintenance or cleaning, or if the machine will be left unattended.

20. Make sure that switch is in plugging in the power cord.

21. Make sure the tool is properly grounded. If equipped with a 3-prong plug it should be used with a three-pole receptacle. Never remove the third prong.

22. Do not use this wood lathe for other than its intended use. If used for other purposes, INTERNATIONAL and holds itself harmless for any injury, which may result from that use.

disclaims any real implied warranty

may result in equip-

the “OFF”

position before

GENERAL

ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS

EFORE CONNECTING THE MACHINE TO THE POWER SOURCE,VERIFY THAT THE VOLTAGE OF YOUR POWER SUPPLY CORRESPONDS

B WITH THE VOLTAGE SPECIFIED ON THE MOTOR I.D. NAMEPLATE. A POWER SOURCE WITH GREATER VOLTAGE THAN NEEDED CAN

ESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY TO THE USER AS WELL AS DAMAGE TO THE MACHINE. IF IN DOUBT, CONTACT A QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN

R BEFORE CONNECTING TO THE POWER SOURCE.

HIS TOOL IS FOR INDOOR USE ONLY. DO NOT EXPOSE TO RAIN OR USE IN WET OR DAMP LOCATIONS.

GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS

In the event of an electrical malfunction or short circuit, grounding reduces the risk of electric shock. This machine is wired for 110V single phase operation and is equipped with a 3-conductor cord and a 3-prong grounding plug A to fit a grounded type receptacle B. Do not remove the 3rd prong (grounding pin) to make it fit into an old 2-hole wall socket or extension cord. If an adaptor plug is used, it must be attached to the metal screw of the receptacle C.

Note: The use of an adaptor plug is illegal in some areas. Check your local codes. If you have any doubts or if the supplied plug does not correspond to your electrical outlet, consult a qualified electrician before proceeding.

EXTENSION CORDS

If you find it necessary to use an extension cord with your machine, use only 3-wire extension cords that have 3- prong grounding plug and a matching 3-pole receptacle that accepts the tool’s plug. Repair or replace a damaged extension cord or plug immediately.

Make sure the cord rating is suitable for the amperage listed on the motor I.D. plate. An undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in loss of power and overheating. The accompanying chart shows the correct size extension cord to be used based on cord length and motor I.D. plate amp rating. If in doubt, use the next heavier gauge. The smaller the number, the heavier the gauge.

AMPERES

(AMPS)

< 5

EXTENSION CORD LENGTH

25 FEET 50 FEET 100 FEET 150 FEET

18 16 16 14

6 TO 10 18 16 14 12

10 TO 12 16 16 14 12

12 TO 16 14 12

* NR = Not Recommended

* NR * NR

CIRCUIT CAPACITY

Make sure that the wires in your circuit are capable of handling the amperage draw from your machine, as well as any other machines that could be operating on the same circuit. If you are unsure, consult a qualified electrician. If the circuit breaker trips or the fuse blows regularly, your machine may be operating on a circuit that is close to its amperage draw capacity. However, if an unusual amperage draw does not exist and a power failure still occurs, contact a qualified technician or our service department.

14" x 30" WOOD LATHE

25-300QC M1

IDENTIFICATION OF MAIN PARTS AND COMPONENTS

A- MOTOR B- BELT TENSION RELEASE LEVER C- HEADSTOCK D- WORK LIGHT E- TOOL REST F- TOOL REST LOCKING LEVER G- TOOL REST CARRIAGE LEVER H- TOOL REST CARRIAGE I- LATHE BED J- LIVE CENTER K- TAILSTOCK L- QUILL MOVEMENT HAND WHEEL M- TAILSTOCK LOCKING LEVER

N- HEADSTOCK LOCKING LEVER O- FLYWHEEL P- INDEXING PIN (SHOWN INSTALLED) Q- SPINDLE SPEED CONTROLLER R- SPINDLE SPEED READ OUT S- ON/OFF SWITCH WITH SAFETY KEY T- SPINDLE DIRECTION SWITCH U- HEADSTOCK PIVOT LOCKING PIN V- FACE PLATE W- SPUR CENTER X- TOOL REST SWIVEL ARM Y- TOOL REST SWIVEL ARM LOCKING LEVER

BASIC FUNCTIONS

This General International model 25-300QC M1 Wood Lathe is designed specifically for medium to larger sized wood turning projects. With a maximum swing over bed of 14”, a distance between centers of 30”, and 2 electronically controlled variable speed ranges (170-1200 and 500-3600 RPM) with digital spindle speed display, the 25300QC is ideal for turnings such as chair or table legs and columns, as well as bowls of various sizes. A simple belt re-positioning on the drive pulleys, allows the operator to select the desired speed range and the electronic speed controller allows for further fine-tuning within each speed range.

ith its pivoting head,larger bowls can also be turned on the outboard side of the lathe, with the help of an option-

W al outboard turning bracket #25-305. For longer turnings an optional 18” bed extension, #25-618 can be added.

The 25-300QC M1 comes equipped with a selection of the most commonly used accessories, including a 3” face plate for bowl turning and both live and spur center for typical spindle turning, to allow the user to begin turning (turning tools not supplied) after a few minutes of assembly and set-up, right out of the box.

The 25-300QC M1 is designed to be compatible with all aftermarket turning accessories using MT#2 Morse taper in both the headstock and tailstock and the headstock spindle threads are compatible with all 1” dia x 8 TPI female threaded chucks and face plates.

UNPACKING

Carefully unpack and remove the lathe and its components from the box and check for damaged or missing items as per the list of contents below.

NOTE: Please report any damaged or missing items to your General International distributor immediately.

LIST OF CONTENTS QTY

A - WOOD LATHE ..................................................................1

B - STAND..............................................................................2

C - SPINDLE LOCK PIN ..........................................................1

D - BELT TENSION RELEASE LEVER.........................................1

E - FACE PLATE WRENCH......................................................1

F - TOOL REST SWIVEL ARM .................................................1

G - HEX HEAD BOLT ..............................................................8

H - KNOCK OUT BAR ............................................................8

I - LEVELING FOOT W/NUT & JAM NUT ..............................4

J - FLAT WASHER...................................................................8

K - 12 /14 MM OPEN END WRENCH...................................1

*Already installed on the lathe

L - LIVE CENTER* ..................................................................1

M - SPUR CENTER*.................................................................1

N - FACE PLATE*....................................................................1

+ 18 hidden pages