The fault may be in the machine adjustments. If the machine is in excellent condition, the fault may be in the tool or tool setup. Reduce the overhang of the tool as much as possible. Be sure all the gib and bearing adjustments are properly made. See that the work receives proper support for the cut and, above all, do not try to turn at a surface speed that is too high.
Excessive speed is probably the greatest cause of chatter.
The first thing you should do when chatter occurs is reduce the speed. Direction of Feed Regardless of how the work is held in the lathe, the tool should feed toward the headstock. This causes most Figure 9-18. Checking a center s point with a center gauge. When you must feed the cutting tool toward the tailstock, take lighter cuts at reduced feeds.