Wow Kurt, I wouldn't know where to begin. I was taught 50 years ago by my dad and the Shop teacher at high school.

Here's a book written by LeBlond, might be a good place to start. Not the size lathe you have in mind, but I suspect most components would be close to the same in their operation.....
http://www.amazon.com/Running-Regal-...8508510&sr=1-3