Robin,

I'm rebuilding a 3.5"x12" Gamages Lathe from the early 50's which is based on a Portass design going back to the 1920's. I also have a 1924 Relmac 4.5"x16" lathe which I am reconditioning, see the thread here: http://www.mycncuk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=197

BTW, when I say 'stud' I don't mean studding but a proper stud, i.e. thread each end, unthreaded bit in the middle. I eventually found what I needed here:

http://www.emkaysupplies.co.uk (mail/phone order only)
http://www.wdsltd.co.uk (online orders are free of postage)

regards,
Irving...