On Dec 1, 4:10 pm, Joseph Gwinn wrote:
I'm going to look at a Clausing 5914 being sold by a welding shop that
is closing at yearend, and I'm looking for a list of issues to be aware
of. The seller is an electrician and makes no claim to be a machinist,
and isn't able to answer my questions.

What I do know: 13" by 40", 208 volts 3 phase, motor HP unknown. Lots
of accessories are included, but the seller does not know their names or
functions.

I also have some more general questions.

1. Does or can the 5914 come with a camlock spindle? (The seller said
it was both camlock and threaded; he may have been thinking of the 5C
collets showing in the photo.) Or did people adapt threaded spindles
somehow? If yes, how well does it work?

2. It is claimed that this 5914 is varispeed. Is this possible? I
suppose someone could have modified the machine.

3. How well does the varispeed work, and what are its failure modes?

4. I think that the machine is under power, so I'll be able to listen
to bearings. What else should I look for in the headstock?

5. I'll look at the ways for wear. The claim is that condition is
good, but who knows what that means.

6. What is the footprint and weight of this machine?

7. What things usually break?

8. What have I missed?

Thanks,

Joe Gwinn

Other posters have given you some good info. There is a discussion
board on Y*hoo devoted to Clausing lathes and mills, with a lot of
good information, in case you haven't been there already. Lots of
members' photos, and file info as well.

I have a 5914, and it is a good general purpose lathe. The weaknesses
are as noted, typically the varispeed drive is the prime failure. The
weight is right at 1200 lbs. If the machine has been in a welding
shop, look carefully at the ways, maybe with a 12-24" good
straightedge up around the headstock. Grinding grit from welding and
subsequent grinding can go pretty much everywhere. Not good for
machine tools generally. Machine footprint about 68" x 26" including
the chip pan, as I recall.

Prices are all over the map, and depend much on the tooling with the
machine as well as the condition, and where they may be located
geographically. A taper attachment alone can be worth ~$500 used, if
in really good condition. The machines with basic tooling, such as a
couple of chucks, small faceplate, and a couple of centers might go
for $1200-2500 depending on how they are sold (eBay, private party,
dealer, etc.)