Make an Anvil Holder for an English Wheel

[goodfellow]

This is a project that maybe of interest and worth posting. It's an english wheel anvil holder that I made for a bigger project. It requires some precise layouts and cuts, but is a "GREAT" project for someone who may be just starting out to learn about, and use basic machine tools.

It requires a lathe and a mill -- and a little careful planning. Perfect for a beginner --

The pieces are 3/8" scap steel (did I mention that this was a "big" e-wheel project, ) but for smaller wheels, the plate can be 1/4". The eventual size depends on you and the size of the project.

Cut two plates to size on a chop, or bandsaw saw (here I'm cutting the side plates)



Machine the sides square 





Center a rotary table with a "test indicator"; then center and clamp the plates in place (I used a 2.75" radius) for the top. I cut both plates at once.









Cut a bottom plate to size (depends on width of anvils) on the chop or bandsaw, and machine the 3/8" "rabbit" on each side to accept the sideplates.







File any rough edges smooth for an even surface and measure on a level surface.
Then cut lands for the anvil axles to rest in.









This is what you end up with!!



Cut the front and back support plates on a saw and finish to size on the mill





Layout the holes for the fasteners and drill/tap to size (I used cap screws)









Make an axle for the appropriate diameter of the anvils. I use cheap Grade 5 bolts



Part the bolt head off, and machine the axle to the correct diameter



Machine the rolling surfaces to fit the lands and polish these surfaces with machinists tape for smooth rolling performance





Here is the finished axle resting in the anvil holder assembly







All painted in "Black Metallic" and ready to go!!