Replies

1. 
   jet | Mar 16, 2007 11:58pm | #1

   Try knots. The discussion group for finewoodworking

   "No doubt exists that all women are crazy; it's only a question of degree." - W.C. Fields
2. 
   Shep | Mar 17, 2007 12:11am | #2

   I turn, but my lathe can't handle anything that big.

   24" dia. is a big piece of wood. I can do 16" dia. by about 5' long.

   What are you making this leg out of? With something that big, you have to be concerned about it flying apart while turning if it's not glued up properly.

1. 
   DanH | Mar 17, 2007 12:13am | #3

   Actually, he's just looking for a spit for his BBQ.
   So convenient a thing it is to be a reasonable Creature, since it enables one to find or make a Reason for everything one has a mind to do. --Benjamin Franklin

2. 
   moko | Mar 17, 2007 01:46am | #4

   the last one i made was from mdf , i did this in england, but my lathe is to small, thanks for everybodys in-put.

3. 
   arnemckinley | Mar 17, 2007 01:54am | #5

   you need to find a log home mill. they are the only one's with a lathe that can handle a piece of wood like that. at least that i know of .

4. 
   Shep | Mar 17, 2007 02:53am | #6

   Try finding a local chapter of the American Association of Woodturners ( http://www.woodturner.org ).

   If you go to the site, you should find something about finding chapters near you

   Chances are they'll be able to help you.

5. 
   dedubya | Mar 17, 2007 03:48am | #7

   I would check some local machine shops, most of the ones I use to deal with would also turn bigger  wood pieces that a wood work type shop couldnt do, usally cheaper too.

6. 
   CarpentrySpecialist | Mar 21, 2007 06:27pm | #8

   Try calling that Pattern Makers shop in Bridgeport on Railroad Ave. I've not talked with them in a couple years but they handle some big stuff. Or ask the engineers at the foundries. Try also Norwalk Compressor and ask where they are sending their stuff. They cast pistons larger that what your doing and have a lathe there (it was in rough shape when I was the Pattern Maker there) but out source to.

   If all else fails, email me and I might still have a job site lathe you can build w/ duplicator using a router. Just plywood, stock hardware and 2x4s. Heavy duty drill for a motor. The hand sketches I did have to be somewhere in my storage closet. Someone lend me a shovel before I go in there. LOL

   G'luck!

   Best to you and yours, Chris.

   Building as thou art paranoid never harmed anyone.