Wright Turns Native Wood Products from Consejo, Belize - Bob Wright's Wood Turning Shop
Bob Wright's Wood Turning Shop
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by Joyce McMaster
Consejo, Belize
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In 1993, back when the airlines were a little more friendly, you were allowed two 70lb bags plus a carry on. I managed to bring a Record CL3 48" bed lathe from Boston to Belize, in one trip, with no extra charges. [those were the days]
The first picture is my 13 year old Record CL3. It was modified a number of years ago by replacing the 3/4hp AC motor with a 1½ hp Dc motor hooked to a Leeson Speed Control. It made all the difference to be able to turn at any speed. Not to mention not having to fool with the belt to change speed.
Through the years the lathe has been in 5 different locations in Belize. Each time I set it up I made the base stronger and heavier to improve stability. I work this poor lathe hard, it is not unusual to have 75 lbs of off balance wood on the out board side. Now, in it's final location it has all the stability possible.
The base is approximately 1x 4x 8 feet. That's about 5000lbs of concrete and steel, set a foot into the ground. Maybe a little over kill but it NEVER moves.
I'm fortunate to be able to work outside all year so I have only a shed roof over the lathe and work bench. More to keep the sun out than the rain. I occasionally get chased inside when it rains side ways but that's a small price to pay.
The easterly wind provides a dust dispersal system that is a lot more economical than a dust collector. The 3 foot fan is my auxiliary dust dispersal unit/ AC. Once in a while the breeze fails. With this fan I can keep the dust moving and stay relatively cool.
My indoor shop is primarily for finishing and tool storage. It's about 14x28 ft. Next to the shop is a 14x14 display room. Although I am at the end of a seven mile dirt road we do get visitors and sell some items here.
© 2009 Consejo.Bz, Ltd.
