Silvan,
As a wheel chair turner, I can tell you that the Jet Mini is NOT a good
candidate for seated turning. If you look at the Jet (and Delta Midi and
Mercury Mini), with their motor mounted below the spindle, by the time you
put a stable platform under it at 1 1/2 to 2 inches thick, then set this all
in your lap, you'll see that the spindle centerline is WAY too high to turn
and try to maintain tool control. The previously mentioned technique of
tilting the machine forward is a possibility, but that would create a
problem with establishing a way to position your tool rest, since the ways
would be out of reach in the tilted position. Actually, the big Jet 1236 is
better for seated work, since the distance from the base to spindle distance
is actually shorter than on the Mini. That's why I'm using the 1236 instead
of the Mini.
Just something to think about from someone who has alr4eady worked through
the same problem.

Ken Moon
Webberville, TX
************************************************** **************************

"Silvan" wrote in message
...
In tossing around ideas for how I'm going to fit the JET mini into my shop
without getting rid of anything, or inconveniencing myself too terribly,
I've been pondering something.

What if I build a low, heavy, wheeled table about 24" high or thereabouts,
such that I would always have to sit down to use the thing. If I did
that,
I could take advantage of wasted space at the center of the shop without
having to go elbow to elbow with it. I would still have to move it around
often, but it would just feel less claustrophobic.

Good idea, bad idea?

I'm not married to the concept if it's a bad idea, so don't try to spare
my
feelings. I'm just noodling. I gotta pick a plan soon and build a stand
so I'm ready to take it out and turn something at 12:01 AM on Christmas
morning.

--
Michael McIntyre ---- Silvan
Linux fanatic, and certified Geek; registered Linux user #243621
http://www.geocities.com/Paris/Rue/5407/