First Lathe Project: Outboard Spider (got a question too!)

[DSM]

Started out with 2.5" solid bar. Turned it down to roughly 2". Turned the diameter of the step and inside diameter for a super snug fit in the spindle bore. Drilled a 3/4" hole all the way through and finished with a boring bar. Came out great!

Now, I do have a quick question. I do not have a mill and I need to drill and tap the 4 holes for the brass tipped cap heads. Any suggestions? Would it be possible to do it on my drill press if I clamp and square in V blocks? I want my tap to start straight, any suggestions?

 

[crb]

Unless your spindle is very short one suggestion I would make is to put the spider screws as close to the bearing holder as possible. If you have to remove the lh cover every time you need to use the spider then that is a small price to pay for the extra versatility. When you find yourself messing with a short bbl you will appreciate being able to use the spider. I bought a spider chuck for the other end to help in this regard. You could make a spider chuck from your faceplate also.