Serial number question - the 'x'

[joe@rivden.com]

Hey everyone,

I am new to the group and recently acquired a 13" x 6' (pics and details are coming). My serial number is 12550tkx14. South bend literature tells me that t=13", k=qcgb, and x=special. Well I know my lathe is "special" to me but I doubt that is what SB had in mind . Can anyone shed some light on what this refers to? I am also curious about the 14, I have even less information on that.

Thanks
Joe

 

[pjf134]

The "x" is special, that means something from the factory was ordered special, like turret, large spindle, special color ect. ect. The 14 at the end is a 13" lathe, the 9" lathes use 10 for some reason that I do not know. I hope this helps.
Paul

 

[joe@rivden.com]

Thanks Paul. Sounds like the 'x' is a general catch-all for a special order but nothing in particular.

Joe

 

[joe@rivden.com]

1200rpm,

Thanks, that is likely it. I got a copy of the order card from South Bend and to my surprise there is a big red 'HARD BED' stamped on it. What a bonus!
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