A general Atlas lathe decision

[Larry$]

That Atlas site was really interesting, even though I don't have an Atlas. http://www.lathes.co.uk/atlas-drills-31-32/
At one time Sears actually sold reasonable tools.

 

[fireguyfire]

So I bought the 936 lathe today and am just about to start going through it.
There is almost no gear lash, and the ways are in great shape; also no play in either the tail piece or tool slides.
The lathe has lived since new on a bench in the finished basement of this old guys farm house, so it has never been in a shop.
It comes with a pile of accessories that I will need to figure out as well.
I will probably fully disassemble and restore it, but first it is covered in a dry varnish from old oil I’m guessing.
Any suggestions on the best product to clean this with? I was leaning towards Varsol.

When running the lathe is very quiet, and when putting my finger on the chuck, and all of the gears while running I can’t sense any vibration.

Is there a repop owners manual available for these lathes?

 

[fireguyfire]

 

[fireguyfire]

 

[fireguyfire]

 

[fireguyfire]

 

[fireguyfire]

 

[fireguyfire]

Is there a way I can date this old lathe?

 

[Jim F]

I am confused by the number of belts.

 

[fireguyfire]

I have no idea on the belts; it’s in as found condition and runs great; the belt de tensioner work well also.
I took a fine scotch brite pad and a bit of low odour varsol in the tail piece area and it really cleaned up nice; there is lots of factory paint still on it.
I also found a number stamped into the way on the tailpiece end as well; 4695 S.