Cut by code from depth keys, problem

[WOT]

My key machine is assembled properly with no missing parts. I have tried two methods and although I've got depth to near perfection, I'm having trouble with spacing being off.


First, I'll set the blank into vise, then stop against the key gauge.
Second, I'll set the depth & space key into the original side.

Make all the cuts needed for that depth, then replace the depth key until all cuts are made.

I pull out the completed code cut key, then compare against the original with the shoulder lined up. Spacing is off, clearly more than 1/1000" allowed by Schlage specs. All the cuts are shifted too far to the tip.

Instead of using the key gauge, I tried using cutter and stylus for aligning, but this caused the spacing interval to be off depending on if the blank seated on the ridge or groove of the cutter.

Any advise?

[lunchb0x]

if you trace a key is the spacing still out? or only with the space and depth keys

[Raccoon]

depending on if the blank seated on the ridge or groove of the cutter.

Please clarify. What manner are you using for spacing at the moment? Could you take a picture of your machine as you are doing the alignment of the cut?

[raimundo]

look at your stylus, and then look at the cutting wheel, if they have different angles, the cutter could be taking more material out than it should. the cutting wheel and the stylus must be matched for proper operation.

[Eyes_Only]

Could your depth keys possibly have been cut incorrectly from where you bought it?

[WOT]

Could your depth keys possibly have been cut incorrectly from where you bought it?

They're fine. Checked w/ a caliper

[zeke79]

Are you cutting from bow to tip regardless of cut depths? If so, try cutting the deepest cuts first with your s&D keys and work your way shallow. I have better luck cutting by S&D this way.

[Raccoon]

I recommend the same. In fact, I feel that depth-space keys can be improved upon for this reason, and think I'll come up with some better designs.