Forming threads by single pointing on the lathe requires repetitive cutting. To assure recurring cuts in the same location, a thread-chasing dial or a high-speed threading attachment is used. These attachments are normally on the side of the apron (image right). The thread-chasing dial engages with the lead screw and is used to indicate when to engage the half nut to permit the cutting tool to follow exactly in the original cut.. In the video bellow there is evidence that the lathe used did not have a chasing dial
A steady rest is used when a long work piece must be supported during a machining operation. Specifically a machining operation at he end of the work piece. The steady rest is clamped to the ways of the lathe and adjustable rest points are adjusted to perfectly center the part while, at the same time, supporting the part during machining.
A follower rest performs somewhat like a steady rest except that the follower rest attaches to the saddle. This allows the follower rest to "follow" along with the carriage during automatic feed. The front side of the rest is open and the top rear and bottom has adjustable rest points (the bottom rest point is not visible in this video). This type of rest is especially useful for machining along the length of a long bar. Without the follower rest the bar would be pushed inward and away from the cutting tool (more at the center of the length than at either end).
Note: it is important to realize that removing stock on the bar removes contact by the rest points and they will have to be readjusted after each pass.
The taper attachment is used to create a taper on a work piece. The taper attachment is attached to the back ways of the lathe. An adjustable block is clamped to the cross slide and the block moves at a fixed rate according to the desired taper that has been set. The taper is turned as the longitudinal feed is engaged.