how much backlash is just 'it's a lathe'

cross slide dial, i can turn it maybe an eighth of a turn before the slide moves. carriage is less. everyone says backlash is normal. nobody says how much normal is before im compensating for a problem

An eighth on a worn hobby cross slide is common. Half a turn is a nut that is done. Measure at the tool with an indicator, not by the feel of the dial. Always approach the cut from the same direction and the backlash stops being a surprise.

Mine is way more than an eighth and I still hold a thou. You get used to it.

You get used to being wrong in a consistent direction. That is not holding a thou. JT, indicate it. If it's under fifteen thou at the tool, learn the direction. If it's sixty, look at the nut.

indicated. about twelve thou. ill approach from the same side and stop calling it broken. ken i believe you believe it