ANTI-VIBRATION TOWEL
When machining or lightening a flywheel on a lathe, vibration and chattering will often cause a poor surface finish. To dampen the vibrations and achieve a nice smooth finish, soak a bath towel in water, wring it out and wrap the damp towel tightly between the lathe chuck and backside of the flywheel. Secure it tightly with a couple bands of safety wire or other suitable method (large plastic zip-ties, shipping strapping, etc). I turned the 14″ diameter 4140 flywheel shown at 650 rpm resulting in a glass smooth, chatter-free finish, as evidenced by the reflection of the tool insert.

Tom Nichols
Automotive Machine & Supply, Inc
Cleburne, TX
MARCH, 2021