I've decided to start this blog to follow the restoration of a Hardinge Cataract Quick Change lathe serial number #086. This lathe is one of approximately 300 lathes made by the Hardinge Bros factory in Chicago starting in 1915ish. This particular lathe was built in July of 1917. This is the second lathe that I own. I also own #039 which was built in Dec 1916. This lathe has also gone through a restoration project however it is not quite complete. My initial plan was to use parts from #086 to assist in finishing of #039 however upon closer inspection #086 is in better shape than #039 so I think I will now start to work on this lathe instead. My previous work was mostly showcased on Pratical Machinist however this time around I think I will publish mostly on this site. Here is a picture of what the lathe looked like when I picked it up.

And this is what it looked like when the original owner picked it up 2 months ago.

There is quite a difference in the photos however they do not show the true picture. The lathe is missing the half nuts which allow the carriage to move under power and the lathe is also missing piece from the lead screw which engages the half nuts. So at this time if it was all assembled you'd have a true manual lathe with no powered carriage and therefore no screw cutting ability either. There are also other items missing such as steady rest, follower rest, collet tray, collet drawbar, taper turning attachment, change gears and some other minor items. Well see you in the next installment.