I'm thinking about buying my first metal lathe sometime soon, so I went
to my local (Seattle area) Enco and looked around. They didn't have
anything on display that was in my price range (pref. close to $1000)
except for a $500 model that seems too small for me. My first planned
application is making some suspension bushings, but I'd like something
big enough for any future projects, too.
However, I see in their catalog that there's a reasonable sized unit for
$1100 or so. I'm getting tempted.
What do I need to look for / look out for when buying a lathe? I
remember someone mentioning that some of the cheaper lathes use a
non-acme thread on the lead screw. Since I didn't get to see this model
in person yet, I don't know about that.
As I see it, lathe prices are based on:
where it's made -- I'm not very picky.
size / capacity -- I think 12 x 30 or so should be big enough for me; my
garage only has
so much room anyway.
number of speeds -- how many speeds would you recommend? I've used
lathes with dozens of
speeds, but I found myself using only a few. I'd
use the same speed
for a small steel part as on a medium-sized aluminum
part, and was
satisfied with the results. Will I really be
disappointed with a 6
speed?
speed control -- It seems like getting a geared head rather than having
to move belts around
really adds to the cost. Is that a big convenience?
I've lived with a belt
drive drill press for 4 years, and I don't mind it at
all. Heck, if I had a
lathe, I could make my own pulleys and have infinite
speed adjustment. <g>
threading -- I won't cut threads very often, and they all seem to
support the range of
threads I ever plan to cut.
motor size -- How much power do I really need? I can just take smaller
cuts.
What else am I leaving out? I'm also interested in any general comments
good or bad about Enco. Is there anywhere else around Seattle where I
should shop for a new/used lathe?
keithka@microsoft.com
Bothell, WA
Elva 300 FJr.
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