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- Nov 14, 2016
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- 3,041
I have an Enco 9x20, which essentially the same as the Grizzly G4000. It is a fine small lathe, it has some issues, but there is an active community who have found DIY solutions for most.
I don't have a South Bend 9 for direct comparison, but I do have an Atlas Craftsman 6x18 and a Logan 11x24. I'd consider the Craftsman at least equal in most regards other than capacity and superior in several areas. It has a backgear, which allows a larger range of speeds (16) and significatly more lower speed options. Despite the size difference, by weight they are only about 100lbs apart.
I'm not suggesting you get a 6" lathe, as 2-1/2" inches of swing is significant. I provide the comparison, because everywhere the Craftsman is better, a 9" Logan or South Bend will be even further ahead.
Assuming it is in good condition, most vintage 9" lathes will be much better. They were far more expensive machines when new, greater mass, more features and designed to meet a higher standard.
An area a 9x20 wins is they are not 50-80 years old, with decades of potential wear and abuse. They are also readily available (just order one). If size / weight is a concern the 9x20 wins here as well. Most vintage lathes have rear mounted motors which makes them very deep, a SB9 requires a bench about twice as deep as the 9x20 (around 38" vs 22" as I recall). The 9x20 has a slightly smaller foot print than my 6x18 Craftsman.
I don't have a South Bend 9 for direct comparison, but I do have an Atlas Craftsman 6x18 and a Logan 11x24. I'd consider the Craftsman at least equal in most regards other than capacity and superior in several areas. It has a backgear, which allows a larger range of speeds (16) and significatly more lower speed options. Despite the size difference, by weight they are only about 100lbs apart.
I'm not suggesting you get a 6" lathe, as 2-1/2" inches of swing is significant. I provide the comparison, because everywhere the Craftsman is better, a 9" Logan or South Bend will be even further ahead.
Assuming it is in good condition, most vintage 9" lathes will be much better. They were far more expensive machines when new, greater mass, more features and designed to meet a higher standard.
An area a 9x20 wins is they are not 50-80 years old, with decades of potential wear and abuse. They are also readily available (just order one). If size / weight is a concern the 9x20 wins here as well. Most vintage lathes have rear mounted motors which makes them very deep, a SB9 requires a bench about twice as deep as the 9x20 (around 38" vs 22" as I recall). The 9x20 has a slightly smaller foot print than my 6x18 Craftsman.