Photo Index - R. K. Le Blond Machine Tool Co. - LeBlond Regal

Machinery Photo Index

Manufactured/Badged by:
R. K. Le Blond Machine Tool Co.
Cincinnati, OH

Machine Specifications
Machine Class:	Metal Working Machinery
Machine Type:	Lathe, Metal
Machine Size:	10x18 (22)
Submitted By:	Mike Fendley

Machine Specifications
Description/Model:	LeBlond Regal
Date of Manufacturer:	1937
Serial Number:	A359 (View SN Registry Entry)
Last Updated	12/3/2018 11:39:32 PM

Comments:

This 1937 LeBlond Regal 10x18 (22”) gear head lathe was originally shipped March 15th, 1937 to Keuffel & Esser Co. in Hoboken, New Jersey. This company made drafting and surveying equipment. During the war years they made “fire control” (targeting) systems for aiming large guns. How this lathe made it from New Jersey to Texas is unknown. This lathe was discovered via Craig’s List in boxes, crates, and bags in Corpus Christi, Texas. The lathe was rusty and brushed a royal blue color. Lathe was purchased and shipped to me, Mike’s Machine Repair, LLC in Maysville, Iowa for complete disassembly and restoration for future use in October of 2016 by “The Original Horseshoe Engraver.” The only serious repairs were as follows: One of the cast iron legs was cracked and repaired. The gear box had a missing part and a broken shift arm that needed extensive repairs. The original electrical reversing switch on top had been crushed and bent but was straightened and repaired. The lathe had the follow rest but not a steady rest. An 11” steady rest was purchased off eBay and modified to work and look very similar to the original. The large 10” faceplate was a D 1-4 camlock modified to fit the threaded spindle of the LeBlond. All other tooling came with the lathe. Every part in the lathe was cleaned and either painted or polished. New felt oil wipes and seals were also installed. The lathe had very little wear as it probably machined mainly brass in its life before it was discovered in Texas as a basket case. It is one of the nicest lathes I have ever restored and is used daily at its new home.

Photo 1:

Comments: Front Right
Source: Mike Fendley

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Photo 2:

Comments: Apron controls
Source: Mike Fendley

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Photo 3:

Comments: Handwheel to aid gear shifting in headstock
Source: Mike Fendley

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Photo 4:

Comments: Regal 10 inch tooling
Source: Mike Fendley

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Photo 5:

Comments: Gear box repair
Source: Mike Fendley

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Photo 6:

Comments: Gear box plate restoration
Source: Mike Fendley

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