Tool Post Alignment Tool
© Frank Ford 2004; Photos by FF
I keep a piece of 1/2" CRS clamped in an unused tool holder - it makes the simplest and easiest to use tool post alignment tool:
I just run the tailstock ram out a bit and I have a perfect visual reference for good alignment of the tool post:
I was holding the camera overhead to get this shot, so I couldn't illustrate my favorite feature of this little "tool." If I loosen the tool post, I can grip my hand around the square bar and and tailstock, holding the two together as I tighten the nut. I don't even have to look to make sure it's parallel.