Surplussed Navy lathe to continue
serving Idaho roads

In an effort to save space, the Lewiston shop recently asked fleet supervisor Roy Hill to surplus a lathe with a 22-foot swing. ITD had acquired the large lathe in the 1960s from the Navy. The machinery showed up with some interesting characteristics.

“It has a 50-caliber bullet entrance and exit hole in its base,” Hill confirmed. “Just think that in World War II, it came under fire. What’s the whole story? If only it could talk.”

Mechanics primarily used it to make shafts for sander drag chains, and when the bridge crew was more active, the crewalso fabricated bridge bearing parts. These days, the D2 shop can save time and space for mechanics by buying new shafts.

The historical lathe will continue its service at Boundary County Road and Bridge, which acquired the surplus item earlier this month for a mere $25.

“We didn’t give it a nickname, but we did think about hosting a special ceremony to say goodbye,” Hill said.

Published 03-20-20