Meet The Team: Workshop Engineer

Russ Tyson, Workshop Engineer:

Describe a typical day at work for you…

A typical day for me at Warco will be in the workshop, and usually involves making something, modding something or fixing something! I can be making parts from scratch, maybe modding a machine to have a DRO system or a power feed, or any specific modifications requested by our customers. I also fix old Warco machines that we’ve bought from customers to sell on as part of our part-exchange scheme and second-hand offering. Usually old machines are still in good working condition but just need some tweaks.

Can you give an example of what you might make from scratch?

A usual part to make would be base plates for the lathes to fit rear tool posts and milling slides, made from a technical drawing. I also make a lot of brackets and spacers to fit my DRO systems as well.

What’s the best part of your job?

The variety! Nearly every day has a new challenge! Also, I get to do my hobby every day by manufacturing items on the lathe and milling machine.

What’s so special about Warco machines and do you have a personal favourite?

I have followed Warco and their machines for over 20 years, and I have visited many Warco open days and shows. I have always liked the fact we are a UK company, still going after all these years, supplying like-minded individuals. My personal favourite is my GH1322 lathe in the Warco workshop. It’s such a nice lathe to use and ergonomically correct for me.

You say this is your hobby too. What equipment do you have in your home workshop?

I have a full-blown workshop at home which covers most of my model engineering needs. I have a mill (Warco Minor - 1996 year ), lathe (Harrison 140 - 1965 year), a power hacksaw (Warco - 1982 year - vintage!), a Warco sander and grinder and various other gadgets and gizmos!

How much time do you spend in your home workshop?

As much time as possible! In reality I try to balance my home life with my young family, so that means probably one or two hours a night through the week and up to eight hours across a weekend (maybe a little less than this in the cold months!) What are some of your home workshop projects? I am currently working on a scratch built 1.5” scale traction engine based on the Minnie engine. I also like making pens from various materials including stainless steel, brass, aluminium, bronze and titanium. I really enjoy modifying motorcycles as well, including a full nut and bolt rebuild on a Honda CB400/4, a Honda VFR 400RR, and a Triumph Daytona T595. I’m currently about to start a Triumph Trident 750.

Image: 1.5" Scale Traction Engine based on the Minnie Engine.