This is my first post to the forum. It begins referring to the initial post of the topic - amazon listed lathes. There are similar lathes on ebay and also another interesting model only recently appearing in the US. It appears to be very similar to the Warco WM180 sold in the UK. While a 7x12, it is quite a bit heavier than SIEG C2 and C3 models, has steel change gears, and a belt for the two speed ranges. Some have been sold but locating anyone that can respond as to its good and bad features has not been possible. It does not have a threading dial, but installing such should be easy. Certainly support in the US is unlikely, but just maybe Warco could be an asset for parts supply.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Motorized-M...753741?hash=item282d4d9fcd:g:m4kAAOSwax5YuOPA
I had a SIEG Homier years ago, since sold; it worked fine, unfinished metal was very bright compared to the Grizzly to be mentioned next. I made many things culminating with a Sparey 5cc engine. I recently endeavored to purchased a Grizzly 7x14 (with the upgraded tailstock); I sent two back for very serious issues in the headstock, electronics, and of course they had the usual minor problems, before getting a full refund. So, no need to recommend that model.
The 9x20 lathe is compelling but it's known shortcomings are troubling; mostly the spindly belt drive and as delivered minimal speed limitations. I did discover there is a variable speed version of this lathe in China, but no US vendor has decided to import it. It seems this would be a great hobby lathe.
http://en.realbull-machine.com/products_detail/productId=29.html
There is little information on the 8x16 to be found.
And finally, after several months of looking for the couple of American lathes of the past, I have given up on that path having seen nothing that the price and condition match up. Worn ways and headstock issues are not worth $1000-$2000.
So, is it the newbie 7x12, the 9x20, or the 8x16? Or just get the best 20% or 25% discount on the HF 7x12 and add the second half-nut? Any will do the size work typically undertaken.