Hello Mike:
Sincere apologize for not replying you asap. I am currently overseas thus I have problem accessing the network at my current location. Also the other problem I have is that I do not have my engineering drawings with me. However, I have hand drawn a section view drawing through the head stock showing all the important components. Hopefully it will be of some help to you. Note: Safety cover for head stock and grinding wheel not shown.
If you refer to the above photo, the purpose of the M24 x 3 Left handed thread at the rear of the head stock spindle was actually designed to mount a face plate for extra large bowl turning. A adjustable tool rest mounted at the side of the machine legs will support any conventional chisels. This feature was not build into the smaller unit because I intend to use it just for pen turning however, as I am staying in a high rise apartment this machine may still be too big for me. For long term plan, I am considering to build a extra small machine with about 200 mm between centers and 60 mm center height.
As mentioned by you in your last postings, it is completely possible to fabricates the whole machine out of strong timber except perhaps for the main spindle shaft, various bearings and the grinding wheel. Other possible method of construction is mild steel sheet materials. Also with careful planing and marking you may not need metal precision working machine to do the job. I did not attempt to use any of these construction methods or materials because my best skill is in metal machining, more important is that I am building these machines for my hobby use and not for sale, thus I do not mind using materials that are much more expensive etc. If you keen to build a similar machine like mine, I can provide you with any drawings (total more than 120 sheets) or technical knowledge that will help you with your task. Do let me know if you need any more details. I will certainly follow your machine building with lots of interest :wink: