Trent Pinion Mill

Accurate pinion cutting has always presented a problem to clockmakers without access to sophisticated machinery. Particularly for the craftsman who requires small numbers of perhaps widely differing sizes. Now, perhaps for the first time, a machine is available in kit form to overcome the problems of pinion cutting for the clock and instrument maker.

Designed by the late Elliot Isaacs and now reviewed and developed by Alan Timmins, the Trent Pinion Mill includes substantial castings and dovetailed work slides to both ease manufacture and improve accuracy. Basically a miniature milling machine, the Trent provides maximum rigidity both in cutter support and work holding. The pinion or small wheel being cut (up to Ø2") is held in collets or between centres and is indexed by a notched brass plate with provision for backlash adjustment. Pinions can be quickly and accurately cut in even the toughest materials, with or without coolant.

The design accepts your cutters up to Ø35mm on a standard Ø7mm bore. Travel in the X, Y and Z planes are 4", 3/8" and 2" respectively. The completed mill weighs 8.5kg (19lbs) and stands 8" tall by 12" wide by 6" deep.

The kit includes all necessary materials with the exception of the motor. Our packing list includes over 70 items including iron castings for the column, knee and head and tailstocks, 26 different sections of steel, iron, bronze and brass, threaded bar for the 2 feed screws, and Ø7mm polyurethane drive belting.



The drawings are professionally compiled on 3D CAD, giving entirely scalable views and isometrics to help the builder understand the major features. Alan's build instructions are carefully thought through, with photos and explanations of the more vital set-ups and processes.

If you would like to understand a lot more about this before committing your time and money, why not order the drawings and construction notes seperately? The cost will be fully refunded when you purchase the full Trent Pinion Mill kit.