Abstract: Headstock and tailstock chucking apparatus for crankshaft machine tools, such as lathes and grinders, utilizing a centering hole defined in the crankshaft workpiece end for axially locating the workpiece relative to the machine, and the machining tools. The stock spindle chucks utilize a center engaging a previously located and dimensioned workpiece center to axially position the workpiece, which is biased into firm engagement with the center prior to chucking. The chuck center and workpiece is axially located and spindle motors reciprocate chuck actuating mechanism sequentially producing axial locking and radial chucking of the workpiece. Further, automatic limit switch positioning apparatus is employed to automatically position machine limit switch controls in accordance with workpiece dimensions and quill location.

Abstract: Apparatus for transferring internal combustion engine crankshafts from a conveyor system to crankshaft machining apparatus capable of automatic functioning. The apparatus includes an overhead track having a translatable carriage mounted thereon and a crankshaft holder depends below the carriage having a pivoted jaw for gripping a crankshaft. A power driven drive shaft mounted on the carriage raises and lowers the holder through an eccentric connection therewith, and the eccentric pin includes a radially movable slide to which a jaw actuator mounted in the holder is connected. The slide includes a cam follower engaging a grooved cam track wherein rotation of the drive shaft produces relative displacement between the jaw actuator and the crankshaft holder during vertical displacement of the holder moving the jaw between holding and release positions during rotation of the drive shaft.