Same ol' lathe question...

[dubdrvrkev]

So, I might be getting some "extra money" (hahaha) soon, and the vortex being what it is, I am thinking of a new lathe for me. That said, I am thinking in the sub 2500 range, so that leaves out the beloved Oneway, PM 4224, stubby and lots other "dream" lathes. My thoughts have been going along the lines of DVR, Jet 16x42, Delta 46-745(16x42), PM 3530 (very top end of the range), and I also might have a line on a used General w/ 20" swing in around the same range.
I am really leaning towards the DVR or PM, but would like to hear from you guys who have used some of these machines and can point this relative newbie in the right direction. I'd like this to be the last lathe I buy, well, not really but you know what I mean.

Thanks for the input.

[Garf]

I have used a dvr and love it. I personally am saving for one myself and will get it as soon as the truck is paid off.

[hcbph]

I just bought a Jet 1642-2 a few weeks ago (the 220v model). I love it, very powerful and easy to use. I should note that I turn spindles, legs, column shaped things. I do not turn any dishes, bowls etc. Powerful, adjustable, able to get a bed extension if desired. So far it's everything I need. I had looked at the Powermatic, and here's one thing to think about: I brought it home and moved it from the truck to my shop by myself. This one darn near gave me a hernia due to the weight. I don't know if I could have handled anything bigger or heavier.

[_Tony]

Kevin,
To point you in the right direction, what do you aim to turn?

Tony

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[La Truciolara]

I have been extensively using the Jet 1642, comparable, to some extent, to the Vicmarc 175 (and Vicmarc is Vicmarc). It is a very good and quiet lathe.
Remember that, if you want to turn large dishes you need the external tool support tripod.

[dubdrvrkev]

I guess I hadn't looked at the Vicmarc, I guess I automatically put them in the "unobtainium" category. Just one more to think about. There are probably many more that I am forgetting about too.

My experience has only been on my Jet mini so far, and I am happy with it but we all know the limitations of a mini. The only time it felt under powered is when I had a chunk of mesquite on there for a bowl that finished about 7.5" diameter. That was a pretty good work out for the little fella.

I don't know that I'll be into doing platters, but you never know, I didn't think I'd do pens either but look at me now. None-the-less, that is why I am trying to get 14"+ swing preferably at least 16", but if I have to give up a little swing to get a better lathe I may be open to that also.

[_Tony]

Then how about the Powermatic 3520. I had my eyes set on that before I found more funds for my current machine. Very nice machine and well made. Amazon sells it for just under $2500.

I have a friend with it if your in need of a personal review. But there's lots of great reviews on this machine on line.

Tony


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"An honest man's pillow is
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[dubdrvrkev]

That is one on my list. I think in my original post I mis-typed and called it a 3530. I really like PM equipment also. IIRC it has a movable headstock, so couldn't one just slide it down and turn outboard of the tail end with a pedestal tool rest? Not that you need to very often with 20" swing.

[_Tony]

Kevin,
I believe you can. Check and see if the have an outboard set up, before you buy just to make sure. Of course it'll up your price a little. If they don't then check with another manufacturer and use that one. You might even do this to price compare.

Good-luck,
Tony

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"An honest man's pillow is
his peace of mind."

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[dubdrvrkev]

Well after a little more research and a little fondling at the local dealers. I have to say that the Jet 1642 and the DVR are leading the pack. I didn't get my hands on a PM, but one of the things that bothers my is for the money that machine should have indexing included. Not that I use it a lot but its better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it (my excuse for owning fireams too).
I am a little confused with the Jets indexing (or what I presume to be) where there are 3 holes in the HS which a number of detents pass by on the spindle. I'm sure a look at the destructions would clear that up, but odd none-the-less. I didn't like the handwheel of the Jet either, but you're kinda of stuck with it due to the motor position. Almost all the reviews of this machine are glowing , which is hard to ignore.
The Delta was nice too, I just felt better standing in front of the Jet. I think it may have been the position of the on/off-speed control switch.
My only gripe so far with the DVR is the bed length, not that its bad its just a little weird.