I have seen telescopes bigger than 3 to 4 inches in diameter.
The second project that comes along after you get the lathe is always
a little bigger than you lathe anyway! Get the biggest lathe that you
can possible get through the door. Even if it means hiring riggers to
get it down there. You only have to go through that process once.
More weight generally means more stability. If you get a light duty
lathe, everything is "springier" and it is harder to take accurate cuts
without cussing.

Pete Stanaitis
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rich brenz wrote:

I'm not an experienced machinist.(But I learn quickly!)
I'd appreciate input a good lathe for home DIY'ers like me.
I'd like to be able to turn aluminum,brass,mild steel and 3-4 inch
maximum diameters. I want to be able to make threaded adapters for
telescope equipment(standard and metric). I'd appreciate input
tools and add-ons that would be useful. I've been to the library and
researched the topic already, so please don't refer me there. I'd like
the advise of others who actually USE(and not just write books about...)
metal lathes. Oh yeah, this lathe will be in my basement and has to fit
through a standard doorway without major disassembly. Price estimates
would help. Thanks.

Rich Brenz