Quote Originally Posted by wires View Post
i like that TR12x3. the price aint bad either, i might just go for that. it seems i will have to get the ends turned down to fit bearings and coupler. i will have to find someone local to get that done, might know a guy.
You can turn them down with the help of an electric drill, a file and some emery paper and a couple of 12mm ID ball races in some MDF pillow blocks. Support the TR12x3 in the pillow block bearings, suitably spaced, the one at the business end leaving say 50mm showing. Chuck the far end in the drill and whizz it at 1000rpm, then use the file to shape the end to a near fit and finish with the emery paper, doing trial fits on the appropriate bearings or measuring as you go...

You might find the use of a grinder to take the hardening off the surface helps, a dremel or similar is an alternative to a file and can be quicker...

At least one member has used this technique successfully...




Of course if you know a man with a lathe...