Some Industrial PVC machining
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1KqsSFgWgc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1KqsSFgWgc
Check the run out on the spindle first.
I don't know if it's a common issue with a Sherline but when you add more tooling into the mix, you're adding more opurtunity for variables.
A good quality chuck is typically ground as a single unit with good tolerances.
When you add a collet to hold a different chuck, you start adding tolerances.
Make sure your spindle is clean and indicating well, then check to see if the chuck is bent. Also check the chuck jaws for chips or dents. Most good chucks have replaceable jaws.
How much runout are you getting?
Yeah, better measure. My chuck has about .002 runout, which doesn't really amount to much when you're using tiny bits because they'll flex and run fairly true once they've started cutting. But the very tips do look like they are bent when spinning.
So I also learned you can chip a live center today... Ugh
Well, DUUUUUUUUde,Unless it was something truly exotic, I would just get the proper hardware.
If you can't do that, drill large enough to remove the existing threads and retap.
Forcing the "standard equivalent" usually results in stripped out threads.