- Joined
- Dec 20, 2012
- Messages
- 9,422
Hey Phil, I've been watching this thread and it looks like you're trying to choose a lathe based on what is available in your area. Nothing wrong with that but that might not be the best way to choose the size of the lathe you need. You also seem to be only looking at old used lathes, which is fine if your goal is to restore a lathe but you have to remember that you also get years of wear and tear along with the deal.
So, let me ask the obvious questions:
Have you considered buying a new machine? It will come with all the tooling you need to get up and running, it will have a warranty and it will have zero wear.
So, let me ask the obvious questions:
- What are your needs? Do you own a farm and need to work on big stuff, do car repair or are you just looking to tinker?
- How much experience do you have with lathes? Are you up to restoring an older lathe?
- What is your budget? An old used lathe may cost you significantly more to restore than you think and, depending on how much the ways are worn, you may wind up with a nicely restored lathe that is not that accurate. Tooling may also be harder to find and will typically cost more as a result.
- Is your goal to learn how to machine stuff or restore stuff? For most guys, learning on a machine that is not worn out is easier.
Have you considered buying a new machine? It will come with all the tooling you need to get up and running, it will have a warranty and it will have zero wear.