How long will a 3 Jaw chuck last

[Kim GarnettParticipant @kimgarnett94824]

Hi

Having serviced my 3 jaw chuck I was wondering How long they are supposed to last. Now I have 2 3 jaws chucks one is getting on for thirty years old and the other is 22 years old on two different lathes both can repeat 0.05mm runout at 110mm from the end of the jaws on a test bar however the zero position (where you tighten with the key) on both chucks has moved. I have looked after them over the years and I don’t abuse them but they have done a lot of work over this time. is it time to look for a new chuck as nothing last for ever or will they keep going ?

[bernard towersParticipant @bernardtowers37738]

Personally I would machine a petal plate and regrind them first it can transform them.

[HopperParticipant @hopper]

0.05.mm (2 thou) runout at 110mm from the jaws? You won’t find a new chuck that good. Most are lucky to be that good immediately next to the jaws.

If you want better, use the 4 jaw chuck. Three jaws chucks are not intended for ultra precision but for quick set up that is “close enough” for general work.

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