VARIABLE SPEED
7 X 12 IN. METAL LATHE
Model # 3455
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IMPORTANT:
Your new tool has been engineered and manufactured to WEN’s highest standards for dependability,
ease of operation, and operator safety. When properly cared for, this product will supply you years
of rugged, trouble-free performance. Pay close attention to the rules for safe operation, warnings,
and cautions. If you use your tool properly and for its intended purpose, you will enjoy years of
safe, reliable service.
NEED HELP? CONTACT US!
Have product questions? Need technical support?
Please feel free to contact us at:
800-232-1195
(M-F 8AM-5PM CST)
techsupport@wenproducts.com
WENPRODUCTS.COM
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Technical Data
General Safety Rules
Specific Safety Rules For Metal Lathes
Electrical Information
Know Your Lathe
Assembly
Operation
Maintenance
Troubleshooting Guide
Exploded View & Parts List
Warranty
TECHNICAL DATA
2
3
4
6
7
8
9
19
20
22
25
Model Number:
Motor:
Output Power:
Swing Over Bed:
Distance Between Centers:
Spindle Bore:
Cross Slide Travel:
Compound Slide Travel
Speeds:
Spindle Taper:
Tailstock Taper:
Longitudinal Feed Rate:
Screw Threads:
Weight:
3455
110V, 60Hz, 4A
250W
7 in. (180 mm)
12 in. (300 mm)
.79 in. (20 mm)
2-1/2 in. (65 mm)
2.16 in. (55 mm)
100 to 2500 RPM
MT3
MT2
.1 to .2 mm
15 to 52 TPI in 18 steps
81 lbs.
2
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
Safety is a combination of common sense, staying alert and knowing how your item works. SAVE THESE SAFE-
TY INSTRUCTIONS.
WARNING: To avoid mistakes and serious injury, do not plug in your tool until the following
steps have been read and understood.
1. READ and become familiar with this entire instruction manual. LEARN the tool’s applications, limitations, and
possible hazards.
2. AVOID DANGEROUS CONDITIONS. Do not use power tools in wet or damp areas or expose them to rain.
Keep work areas well lit.
3. DO NOT use power tools in the presence of flammable liquids or gases.
4. ALWAYS keep your work area clean, uncluttered, and well lit. DO NOT work on floor surfaces that are slippery
with sawdust or wax.
5. KEEP BYSTANDERS AT A SAFE DISTANCE from the work area, especially when the tool is operating.
NEVER allow children or pets near the tool.
6. DO NOT FORCE THE TOOL to do a job for which it was not designed.
7. DRESS FOR SAFETY. Do not wear loose clothing, gloves, neckties, or jewelry (rings, watches, etc.) when operating the tool. Inappropriate clothing and items can get caught in moving parts and draw you in. ALWAYS wear
non-slip footwear and tie back long hair.
8. WEAR A FACE MASK OR DUST MASK to fight the dust produced by operation.
WARNING: Dust generated from certain materials can be hazardous to your health. Always operate the tool in a well-ventilated area and provide for proper dust removal. Use dust collection systems whenever possible.
9. ALWAYS remove the power cord plug from the electrical outlet when making adjustments, changing parts,
cleaning, or working on the tool.
10. KEEP GUARDS IN PLACE AND IN WORKING ORDER.
11. AVOID ACCIDENTAL START-UPS. Make sure the power switch is in the OFF position before plugging in
the power cord.
12. REMOVE ADJUSTMENT TOOLS. Always make sure all adjustment tools are removed from the tool before
turning it on.
13. NEVER LEAVE A RUNNING TOOL UNATTENDED. Turn the power switch to OFF. Do not leave the
tool until it has come to a complete stop.
14. NEVER STAND ON A TOOL. Serious injury could result if the tool tips or is accidentally hit. DO NOT store
anything above or near the tool.
3
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
15. DO NOT OVERREACH. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. Wear oil-resistant rubber-soled footwear. Keep the floor clear of oil, scrap, and other debris.
16. MAINTAIN TOOLS PROPERLY. ALWAYS keep tools clean and in good working order. Follow instructions for lubricating and changing accessories.
17. CHECK FOR DAMAGED PARTS. Check for alignment of moving parts, jamming, breakage, improper
mounting, or any other conditions that may affect the tool’s operation. Any part that is damaged should be properly
repaired or replaced before use.
18. MAKE THE WORKSHOP CHILDPROOF. Use padlocks and master switches and ALWAYS remove starter keys.
19. DO NOT operate the tool if you are under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medication that may affect your
ability to properly use the tool.
20. USE SAFETY GOGGLES AT ALL TIMES that comply with ANSI Z87.1. Normal safety glasses only have
impact resistant lenses and are not designed for safety. Wear a face or dust mask when working in a dusty environment. Use ear protection such as plugs or muffs during extended periods of operation.
SPECIFIC RULES FOR METAL LATHES
1. This lathe is designed and intended for use by properly trained and experienced personnel only. If you are not
familiar with the proper and safe operation of a lathe, do not use it until proper training and knowledge have been
acquired.
2. Always wear eye protection and a face shield/dust mask when using the lathe.
3. Make sure all tools, chisels and accessories are sharp enough for the task at hand before using them. Always use
the right tool at the correct speed and feed rate.
4. Turn off and unplug the machine before doing any cleaning or maintenance. Use a brush to remove chips or
debris. Never use your hands to remove excess material and debris.
5. Check the workpiece carefully for inconsistencies or obstructions. These types of blemishes may cause a safety
risk during turning.
6. Rotate the workpiece by hand to check clearance before turning the machine on.
7. Select the appropriate speed for the task at hand. Start at a low speed and allow the lathe to ramp up to the operating speed before engaging any chisels, tools or other carving accessories.
8. Never stop a rotating workpiece with your hand.
9. When turning between centers, make sure the headstock and tailstock are tight and snug against the workpiece.
10. Always use a brush or rag to clear away chips from the workpiece. Using your hand can cause serious injury.
4
SPECIFIC RULES FOR LATHES
11. Always remove the key from the chuck jaws before operation.
12. Always wear a full face mask. If a tool or workpiece breaks off, it can create a hazard to users and onlookers.
13. Always use the right cutting tool. An improper tool could break or cause unwanted strain on the machine.
14. Never attempt to stop the lathe with your hand. You will lose your hand.
15. Always use the proper feed rate for your workpiece. An overly fast feed rate can damage the lathe or the workpiece.
16. Secure the workpiece properly, make sure the chuck is tight and secure on the workpiece before beginning to
turn. A loose workpiece can shoot out and severely injure you or anyone around.
17. Use a tailstock to support long work stock. Anything more than 2.5 times as long as it is thick needs the tailstock
to support it.
18. Never operate the lathe with damaged parts.
19. Never turn a workpiece at RPMs that are too high for the work material. This can cause the cutting tool to break
and launch off, injuring you or a bystander.
20. Never reverse motor direction while the machine is running.
21. Never change the lead screw feed direction while the machine is running.
22. Always ensure proper clearance between the workpiece and the cross slide, compound slide, and tool post.
23. Always disengage automatic feed after a cutting pass, even if it is the final cut. You can forget and hurt yourself
upon next use.
24. Always tie up long hair. Do not wear any loose/hanging clothing. Even aprons can be hazards when improperly
secured.
25. Remove any and all jewelry, rings, watches, etc. to avoid getting them caught in the lathe.
ELECTRICAL INFORMATION
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
IN THE EVENT OF A MALFUNCTION OR BREAKDOWN, grounding provides the path of least resistance
for an electric current and reduces the risk of electric shock. This tool is equipped with an electric cord that has an
equipment grounding conductor and a grounding plug. The plug MUST be plugged into a matching outlet that is
properly installed and grounded in accordance with ALL local codes and ordinances.
DO NOT MODIFY THE PLUG PROVIDED. If it will not fit the outlet, have the proper outlet installed by a
licensed electrician.
IMPROPER CONNECTION of the equipment grounding conductor can result in electric shock. The conductor with the green insulation (with or without yellow stripes) is the equipment grounding conductor. If repair or
replacement of the electric cord or plug is necessary, DO NOT connect the equipment grounding conductor to a
live terminal.
CHECK with a licensed electrician or service personnel if you do not completely understand the grounding instructions or whether the tool is properly
grounded.
USE ONLY THREE-WIRE EXTENSION CORDS that have three-pronged
plugs and outlets that accept the tool’s plug as shown. Repair or replace a damaged or worn cord immediately.
CAUTION: In all cases, make certain the outlet in question is properly grounded. If you are not sure, have a licensed electrician check the outlet.
WARNING: This tool is for indoor use only. Do not expose to rain or use in damp locations. This tool
must be grounded while in use to protect the operator from electric shock.
GUIDELINES FOR EXTENSION CORDS
Make sure your extension cord is in good condition. When using an extension cord, be sure to use one heavy
enough to carry the current your product will draw. An undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting
in loss of power and overheating. The table below shows the correct size to be used according to cord length and
nameplate ampere rating. When in doubt, use a heavier cord. The smaller the gauge number, the heavier the cord.
Make sure your extension cord is properly wired and in good condition. Always replace a damaged extension cord
or have it repaired by a qualified person before using it. Protect your extension cords from sharp objects, excessive
heat and damp/wet areas.
AMPERAGE
4A 18 gauge 16 gauge 16 gauge 14 gauge
REQUIRED GAUGE FOR EXTENSION CORDS
25 ft. 50 ft. 100 ft. 150 ft.
Use a separate electrical circuit for your tools. This circuit must not be less than a #12 wire and should be protected
with a 15 A time-delayed fuse. Before connecting the motor to the power line, make sure the switch is in the OFF
position and the electric current is rated the same as the current stamped on the motor nameplate. Running at a
lower voltage will damage the motor.
6
KNOW YOUR LATHE
A - Running Gear Cover
B - Lathe Control Panel
C - Head Stock
D - Spindle
E - 3-Jaw Chuck
F - Tool Post Lock
G - Cross Slide Handle
H - Compound Slide
I - Quill
J - Quill Lock
K - Tailstock Hand Wheel
L - Tailstock
M - Tailstock Lock Nut
N - Compound Slide Handle
O - Automatic Feed Lever
P - Cross Slide
Q - Manual (Carriage) Feed Handle
R - Tool Post
NOT PICTURED (See page 8 for locations):
High/Low Speed Range Lever (behind headstock)
Forward/Neutral/Reverse Lever (behind headstock)
B
A
C
R
Q
D
E
F
P
O
G
H
N
I
J
K
L
M
LATHE CONTROL PANEL (FIG. A)
Before operating your lathe, become familiar with the controls.
A. VARIABLE SPEED CONTROLLER: Allows the adjustment of the lathe’s speed from 0 to 2500 RPM.
B. EMERGENCY SHUTOFF: Stops power to the unit when
pressed during operation. Button must be UP (clasp released)
to permit operation. Eye guard must also be DOWN to permit
operation. Raising eye guard before or during operation causes
motor fault.
C. SPINDLE DIRECTION SELECTOR: Allows the user to select the direction of the spindle between clockwise (forward), neutral (O), and counterclockwise (reverse). Forward = toward operator (clockwise when viewed
from the headstock end; opposite for reverse.
DO NOT CHANGE THE SPINDLE DIRECTION WHILE THE UNIT IS RUNNING! IT WILL DAMAGE THE LATHE!
D. FUSE CAP: Contains the fuse (4A) that protects the unit from circuit overloads. The fuse can be removed by
turning 1/4-turn counterclockwise with Phillips-head screwdriver, then pulling fuse and cap out.
D
A
B
C
Fig. A
7
KNOW YOUR LATHE
BEHIND HEADSTOCK (FIG. B)
A) : Allows the user to shift the spindle speed
range from HIGH (0-2500 RPM) to LOW (01100 RPM).
DO NOT SHIFT FROM HIGH TO LOW
WHILE THE LATHE IS RUNNING!
B) LEAD SCREW DIRECTION LEVER:
Change the direction of the lead screw rotation between forward, reverse, and neutral. This is springloaded, so it needs to be pulled OUT (away from
lathe body), position adjusted, and then released
B
A
DO NOT CHANGE DIRECTION OF THE
LEAD SCREW WHILE THE LATHE IS RUNNING!
Fig. B
ASSEMBLY
UNPACKING
Carefully unpack the lathe and all its parts. Compare against the list below. Do not discard the carton or any
packaging until the lathe is completely assembled.
WARNING: If any part is missing or damaged, do not plug in the tool until the missing or damaged
part is replaced.
M6 Pan Head Screws (4)
Plastic Oil Container (Oil not included)
TO ASSEMBLE
NOTE: Before assembling, carefully wipe off all grease and rust-protectant coating with a soft cloth. Use kerosene
to fully remove the grease and coating. Apply a light coat of good-quality paste wax to prevent rusting and ensure
ease of movement between parts.
Lathe
Rubber Feet (4)
Hex Keys (4)
Chuck Key
Spare Fuse
Plastic Handles w/ Nuts and Bolts
No. 2 Morse Taper Center (Tailstock)
External Jaws for 3-Jaw Chuck (3)
8 x 10 mm Wrench
14 x 17 mm Wrench
Gear Set
Face Shield
Attach the plastic handles to the rims of the manual feed and tailstock feed handles respectively. Ensure the nuts
are tight and the handles spin freely about the bolts without excessive end play.
The carriage, cross-slide and compound slide adjustments are all factory set to ensure smooth movement in both
directions. However the adjustments may have been misaligned during transportation. This will be indicated by
stiff or erratic movement. Refer to “Settings and Adjustments” for adjustment methods.
All hex keys and wrenches necessary to carry out various adjustments are supplied together with a chuck key for
the 3-jaw chuck. The fuse socket (Fig. A) is located on the main control panel.
The four M6 pan-head screws are used to attach the chip tray and rubber feet to the tapped holes in the underside of the lathe body. Insert the screws through the feet, through the chip tray, and tighten in the threaded holes.
We strongly recommend that to provide maximum stability and safety, users should secure the lathe to a firm
foundation as described under “Mounting the Lathe” below.
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