Lathe Multi-Direction Vertical Milling Column – Manual

Adding a milling column to your lathe is the most economical way to get into milling. Most standard vertical milling operations can be performed with this attachment, with size being the only basic limitation. Conversion from the lathe to milling takes less than one minute. Almost all Sherline milling accessories may be used with the setup.

The multi-direction vertical milling column provides all the movements of the 8-direction mill. The entire Z-axis column can be swung, rotated, tilted or moved in and out for machining or drilling from just about any angle. At any time, you can purchase the Deluxe XY base, which has been designed to accept this column. In doing so, you have duplicated an 8-direction mill while enjoying the cost savings of not purchasing a second headstock and motor unit. This incremental approach allows you to start machining now and add to your shop as your projects become more demanding or as your budget allows.

New Feature! Vertical milling columns now include an oil reservoir on the saddle nut to keep the leadscrew lubricated.

The multi-direction vertical milling column mounted on a Model 4000 lathe. The new multi-direction vertical milling column opens up many new machining possibilities on the lathe by turning it into an 8-direction mill.

Explanation of terms: As used in reference to the Sherline product line, a MILL COLUMN is a column used on a mill. It is held in place on the mill base with two 1/4-20 bolts. A VERTICAL MILLING COLUMN is used on the lathe to add a milling capability. It has a large hole in the center that fits over the headstock pin on the lathe base and is held in place with a set screw. The lathe’s headstock/motor/speed control unit is relocated from the pin on the base to the pin on the vertical milling column saddle. In practice, all vertical milling column bases now have both the single hole for the pin AND the two holes for use on a mill base, so they can be used for either application, whereas mill columns can only be used on a mill base.