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HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it
exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
Bob La Londe wrote:
I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. Logan , or it's Wards alter-ego Powr-kraft . Well supported , and they come up on eBay regularly , in all kinds of price ranges . Mine's a Wards 10X31 , and other than parting/form tools and some boring bar work it's as smooth as I could ask . -- Snag "90 FLHTCU "Strider" '39 WLDD "PopCycle" BS 132/SENS/DOF |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
Bob La Londe wrote: I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. The Harbor Freight 9x20 bench lathe would be the next step up at moderate cost. Wait for a 20% coupon and a sale and get a really good deal. It's light years ahead of the little 7x10 in terms of power and rigidity, and reported to be a decent machine if you spend a few days on the initial overhaul and setup. |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
Bob La Londe wrote:
I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. Don't overlook used Taiwan-made Jet lathes. I have a 10x24 and I've made all sorts of stuff on it, including internal and external single-point threads. It's a little more noisy and a little more flexible than I'd like, but it has always gotten the job done. |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
"Pete C." wrote: Bob La Londe wrote: I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. The Harbor Freight 9x20 bench lathe would be the next step up at moderate cost. Wait for a 20% coupon and a sale and get a really good deal. It's light years ahead of the little 7x10 in terms of power and rigidity, and reported to be a decent machine if you spend a few days on the initial overhaul and setup. Forgot to mention that it also gets you threading capability. |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
"Pete C." wrote in message
ster.com... "Pete C." wrote: Bob La Londe wrote: I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. The Harbor Freight 9x20 bench lathe would be the next step up at moderate cost. Wait for a 20% coupon and a sale and get a really good deal. It's light years ahead of the little 7x10 in terms of power and rigidity, and reported to be a decent machine if you spend a few days on the initial overhaul and setup. Forgot to mention that it also gets you threading capability. Actually my little 7 X 10 claims threading capability and it came with a bunch of interchangeable gears for different thread pitches. My experiments with that so far have not been as wonderful as I would like, but I am a backyard machinist with zero education and zero professional experience in machine work. |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
"Pete C." wrote in message
ster.com... Bob La Londe wrote: I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. The Harbor Freight 9x20 bench lathe would be the next step up at moderate cost. Wait for a 20% coupon and a sale and get a really good deal. It's light years ahead of the little 7x10 in terms of power and rigidity, and reported to be a decent machine if you spend a few days on the initial overhaul and setup. 20% Coupon http://www.harborfreightusa.com/html...mages/20_c.jpg This lathe? http://www.harborfreight.com/9-inch-...the-45861.html |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
Bob La Londe wrote: "Pete C." wrote in message ster.com... "Pete C." wrote: Bob La Londe wrote: I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. The Harbor Freight 9x20 bench lathe would be the next step up at moderate cost. Wait for a 20% coupon and a sale and get a really good deal. It's light years ahead of the little 7x10 in terms of power and rigidity, and reported to be a decent machine if you spend a few days on the initial overhaul and setup. Forgot to mention that it also gets you threading capability. Actually my little 7 X 10 claims threading capability and it came with a bunch of interchangeable gears for different thread pitches. My experiments with that so far have not been as wonderful as I would like, but I am a backyard machinist with zero education and zero professional experience in machine work. Ok, how about "easy quick change threading capability"? |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
Bob La Londe wrote: "Pete C." wrote in message ster.com... Bob La Londe wrote: I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. The Harbor Freight 9x20 bench lathe would be the next step up at moderate cost. Wait for a 20% coupon and a sale and get a really good deal. It's light years ahead of the little 7x10 in terms of power and rigidity, and reported to be a decent machine if you spend a few days on the initial overhaul and setup. 20% Coupon http://www.harborfreightusa.com/html...mages/20_c.jpg This lathe? http://www.harborfreight.com/9-inch-...the-45861.html Yep, that lathe. The stand is sold separately. It's a big step up in capability from the 7x14, at a fairly small step in price. |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
"Pete C." wrote in message
ter.com... Bob La Londe wrote: "Pete C." wrote in message ster.com... Bob La Londe wrote: I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. The Harbor Freight 9x20 bench lathe would be the next step up at moderate cost. Wait for a 20% coupon and a sale and get a really good deal. It's light years ahead of the little 7x10 in terms of power and rigidity, and reported to be a decent machine if you spend a few days on the initial overhaul and setup. 20% Coupon http://www.harborfreightusa.com/html...mages/20_c.jpg This lathe? http://www.harborfreight.com/9-inch-...the-45861.html Yep, that lathe. The stand is sold separately. It's a big step up in capability from the 7x14, at a fairly small step in price. I guess I'll have to wander by the local store and see what the in store price is (if they have one), and if they will honor that coupon. |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
"Pete C." wrote in message
ster.com... Bob La Londe wrote: "Pete C." wrote in message ster.com... "Pete C." wrote: Bob La Londe wrote: I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. The Harbor Freight 9x20 bench lathe would be the next step up at moderate cost. Wait for a 20% coupon and a sale and get a really good deal. It's light years ahead of the little 7x10 in terms of power and rigidity, and reported to be a decent machine if you spend a few days on the initial overhaul and setup. Forgot to mention that it also gets you threading capability. Actually my little 7 X 10 claims threading capability and it came with a bunch of interchangeable gears for different thread pitches. My experiments with that so far have not been as wonderful as I would like, but I am a backyard machinist with zero education and zero professional experience in machine work. Ok, how about "easy quick change threading capability"? LOL. I can say that swapping the gears and getting everything lined up is not a snap on this 7X10. |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
Bob La Londe wrote: "Pete C." wrote in message ter.com... Bob La Londe wrote: "Pete C." wrote in message ster.com... Bob La Londe wrote: I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. The Harbor Freight 9x20 bench lathe would be the next step up at moderate cost. Wait for a 20% coupon and a sale and get a really good deal. It's light years ahead of the little 7x10 in terms of power and rigidity, and reported to be a decent machine if you spend a few days on the initial overhaul and setup. 20% Coupon http://www.harborfreightusa.com/html...mages/20_c.jpg This lathe? http://www.harborfreight.com/9-inch-...the-45861.html Yep, that lathe. The stand is sold separately. It's a big step up in capability from the 7x14, at a fairly small step in price. I guess I'll have to wander by the local store and see what the in store price is (if they have one), and if they will honor that coupon. Yes, the instant in-store gratification and lack of shipping hassle is a big plus. The fact that parts are available inexpensively, if slowly, from HF is another plus. |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
The suggested 9x20" lathe may give a larger work envelope, however the
typical 9x20s from China have issues too. The worst problem of the 9x20 (as far as effecting operational performance) is a weak mount for the compound/top slide. With an improved mounting plate, chatter problems are greatly reduced or eliminated. Some eBay sellers offer CNC machined mounting plates. Most of the other issues are fairly easily corrected by an initial tear-down and cleanup, such as tightening or replacing cheaply-made fasteners. Some 9x20 users have had problems with the skinny drive belt breaking, but that wasn't a problem with the 2 models I've used. There are numerous websites with good upgrade/improvement projects for either model, as both the 7x and 9x20s are popular models. I don't know where HF gets the idea that their 9x20 is a geared head machine, but I haven't seen them. Yeah, gears are attached to the headstock, but there doesn't appear to be any gears inside the headstock. The earlier models were definitely not geared-head versions.. the only parts inside the headstock are a set of tapered roller bearings and the spindle. The major feature of the 9x20 is the quick-change gearbox for the leadscrew. Other features/improvements over the 7x include metal change gears, larger motor (although not variable speed), and possibly more accessories. The accessories included from different dealers can differ quite a bit. A much better quality lathe is most likely going to cost considerably more than the commonly available Asian imports. The Austrian Emco models are regarded as very good quality machines. -- WB .......... "Bob La Londe" wrote in message ... I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
"Pete C." wrote in message
ster.com... Bob La Londe wrote: "Pete C." wrote in message ter.com... Bob La Londe wrote: "Pete C." wrote in message ster.com... Bob La Londe wrote: I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. The Harbor Freight 9x20 bench lathe would be the next step up at moderate cost. Wait for a 20% coupon and a sale and get a really good deal. It's light years ahead of the little 7x10 in terms of power and rigidity, and reported to be a decent machine if you spend a few days on the initial overhaul and setup. 20% Coupon http://www.harborfreightusa.com/html...mages/20_c.jpg This lathe? http://www.harborfreight.com/9-inch-...the-45861.html Yep, that lathe. The stand is sold separately. It's a big step up in capability from the 7x14, at a fairly small step in price. I guess I'll have to wander by the local store and see what the in store price is (if they have one), and if they will honor that coupon. Yes, the instant in-store gratification and lack of shipping hassle is a big plus. The fact that parts are available inexpensively, if slowly, from HF is another plus. The big headache for me with parts has always been finding the correct HF catalog number. Usually I resort to contacting HF customer service. As far as gratification. Eh!. At $103 for freight and I have to pay sales tax whether I order it on-line or get it in the store even if it's a little more in the store the net is still sometimes cheaper. Now to go visit some customers, the bank, and HF. |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
"Jim Stewart" wrote in message
... Bob La Londe wrote: I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. Don't overlook used Taiwan-made Jet lathes. I have a 10x24 and I've made all sorts of stuff on it, including internal and external single-point threads. It's a little more noisy and a little more flexible than I'd like, but it has always gotten the job done. Is Jet better than other mid price models? I notice they cost a little more for tools the same size as some other manufacturers. |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
"Bob La Londe" wrote:
Is Jet better than other mid price models? I notice they cost a little more for tools the same size as some other manufacturers. Once upon a time Jet was Taiwan manufacture. My Jet items are a big band saw and a jointer. That is about 10 years ago, decent enough stuff. Jet vs HF, I'd take a chance on Jet unless a bit of due diligence (googling your arse off) comes up with something otherwise. Wes -- "Additionally as a security officer, I carry a gun to protect government officials but my life isn't worth protecting at home in their eyes." Dick Anthony Heller |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
According to comments I've read over the years, the major difference between
the Jet 9x20, and the generic models from various dealers, is that the spindle has an inch-thread, instead of metric. Another feature may be that the motor is UL approved, but I don't know how much that means when many domestic USA motor brands are now made in China. The generic Asian 9x20 models are capable of cutting the metric spindle nose thread, although the thread chart doesn't show that they can. There is an expanded threading chart in an old Dropbox annual archive. As far as getting the most for your money, the included accessories will probably be the best indicator. After one makes a few improvements, and replaces the motor with either a DC drive or a 3 phase and VFD, the 9x20 models are a decent benchtop HSM lathe. And I forgot to mench, the head/tailstock tapers are the same as the 7x models. -- WB .......... "Bob La Londe" wrote in message ... Don't overlook used Taiwan-made Jet lathes. I have a 10x24 and I've made all sorts of stuff on it, including internal and external single-point threads. It's a little more noisy and a little more flexible than I'd like, but it has always gotten the job done. Is Jet better than other mid price models? I notice they cost a little more for tools the same size as some other manufacturers. |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
On Mon, 03 May 2010 17:15:50 -0400, Wes
wrote: "Bob La Londe" wrote: Is Jet better than other mid price models? I notice they cost a little more for tools the same size as some other manufacturers. Once upon a time Jet was Taiwan manufacture. My Jet items are a big band saw and a jointer. That is about 10 years ago, decent enough stuff. Jet vs HF, I'd take a chance on Jet unless a bit of due diligence (googling your arse off) comes up with something otherwise. Wes Ive worked on a fair amount of Jet machinery in the last 5-8 yrs..and its pretty decent right out of the box. Most of course is Chinese..but its a higher level than most. Not hugely better, but decent enough. Gunner -- "First Law of Leftist Debate The more you present a leftist with factual evidence that is counter to his preconceived world view and the more difficult it becomes for him to refute it without losing face the chance of him calling you a racist, bigot, homophobe approaches infinity. This is despite the thread you are in having not mentioned race or sexual preference in any way that is relevant to the subject." Grey Ghost |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
"Bob La Londe" wrote in message ... I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. If you are going to go with a Chinese 9x20 regardless of the name I strongly suggest visiting the Yahoo 9x20 group. As others suggested, there is a lot of work to be done on the machine to make it useable. I have recently graduated from Taig to a 9x20 and have so far replaced several parts including the dreaded compound attachment (there is a better way than just making or buying a 4-bolt clamp - it's called a Pitkin Donut - details on the group files). Having said that it is an OK machine for someone like myself. I am enjoying the extra size and power. I went through months of agonizing over the choice but in the end this is as big as I can handle and probably need. Here are some pics: http://www.flickr.com/photos/2768312...7623585864057/ Hope this helps. -- Michael Koblic, Campbell River, BC |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
On 2010-05-03, Bob La Londe wrote:
I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. Unless the bed is a heavier casting it will probably flex more than the 10" one. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. You might look for a used Clausing. I'm quite happy with my 12x24" one and it doesn't have the hobby market name attraction of the South Bend, so you can probably find a much more affordable one, with patience. One thing to check when you find one is the bore through the spindle. If it is 1-3/8", you can fit it with 5C collets and a closer. If it is smaller, the collets which can be fitted to it will be smaller as well, and much more expensive. 5C is common enough so there are lots of makers, and thus some brands are quite affordable. Enjoy, DoN. -- Email: | Voice (all times): (703) 938-4564 (too) near Washington D.C. | http://www.d-and-d.com/dnichols/DoN.html --- Black Holes are where God is dividing by zero --- |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
In article . com, "Pete C." wrote:
Bob La Londe wrote: http://www.harborfreight.com/9-inch-...riven-bench-la the-45861.html Yep, that lathe. The stand is sold separately. It's a big step up in capability from the 7x14, at a fairly small step in price. Since when does _more than double_ constitute "a fairly small step in price"? |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
Doug Miller wrote: In article . com, "Pete C." wrote: Bob La Londe wrote: http://www.harborfreight.com/9-inch-...riven-bench-la the-45861.html Yep, that lathe. The stand is sold separately. It's a big step up in capability from the 7x14, at a fairly small step in price. Since when does _more than double_ constitute "a fairly small step in price"? When the other options are 4x and up. |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
On 2010-05-04, Michael Koblic wrote:
[ ... ] If you are going to go with a Chinese 9x20 regardless of the name I strongly suggest visiting the Yahoo 9x20 group. As others suggested, there is a lot of work to be done on the machine to make it useable. I have recently graduated from Taig to a 9x20 and have so far replaced several parts including the dreaded compound attachment (there is a better way than just making or buying a 4-bolt clamp - it's called a Pitkin Donut - details on the group files). http://www.flickr.com/photos/2768312...7623585864057/ Hmm ... you know that now that you have fixed and re-faced the faceplates, you can turn the concentric grooves back to depth too. They are useful when centering a workpiece prior to clamping it in place on the faceplate. Enjoy, DoN. -- Email: | Voice (all times): (703) 938-4564 (too) near Washington D.C. | http://www.d-and-d.com/dnichols/DoN.html --- Black Holes are where God is dividing by zero --- |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
Congrats on the recent shop addition. Making improvements/upgrading parts is
all good practice, IMO. -- WB .......... "Michael Koblic" wrote in message ... If you are going to go with a Chinese 9x20 regardless of the name I strongly suggest visiting the Yahoo 9x20 group. As others suggested, there is a lot of work to be done on the machine to make it useable. I have recently graduated from Taig to a 9x20 and have so far replaced several parts including the dreaded compound attachment (there is a better way than just making or buying a 4-bolt clamp - it's called a Pitkin Donut - details on the group files). Having said that it is an OK machine for someone like myself. I am enjoying the extra size and power. I went through months of agonizing over the choice but in the end this is as big as I can handle and probably need. Here are some pics: http://www.flickr.com/photos/2768312...7623585864057/ Hope this helps. -- Michael Koblic, Campbell River, BC |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
Jim Stewart wrote:
Bob La Londe wrote: I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. Don't overlook used Taiwan-made Jet lathes. I have a 10x24 and I've made all sorts of stuff on it, including internal and external single-point threads. It's a little more noisy and a little more flexible than I'd like, but it has always gotten the job done. I have a 10x24 Enco, made in the 1980s. Good machine. I use it most of the time rather than my Logan, which I just sold. |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
Bob La Londe wrote:
I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. HF and others, such as Lathemaster, also offer a 8x14 lathe. It is reportedly much heavier and better made than the 9x20. I have not seen one, and they are not as well known or supported, but might be worth a look. I have seen them for under $500 new, but it's been a while. Still, there's those 20% coupons. |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
RBnDFW wrote:
Jim Stewart wrote: Bob La Londe wrote: I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. Don't overlook used Taiwan-made Jet lathes. I have a 10x24 and I've made all sorts of stuff on it, including internal and external single-point threads. It's a little more noisy and a little more flexible than I'd like, but it has always gotten the job done. I have a 10x24 Enco, made in the 1980s. Good machine. I use it most of the time rather than my Logan, which I just sold. It is a good machine. I fitted an outboard 5C collet holder to it and use that about 90% of the time. I also tossed the garbage motor that came with it and installed a 1hp 3phase motor and VFD. |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
In article ,
Jim Stewart wrote: RBnDFW wrote: Jim Stewart wrote: Bob La Londe wrote: I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. Don't overlook used Taiwan-made Jet lathes. I have a 10x24 and I've made all sorts of stuff on it, including internal and external single-point threads. It's a little more noisy and a little more flexible than I'd like, but it has always gotten the job done. I have a 10x24 Enco, made in the 1980s. Good machine. I use it most of the time rather than my Logan, which I just sold. It is a good machine. I fitted an outboard 5C collet holder to it and use that about 90% of the time. I also tossed the garbage motor that came with it and installed a 1hp 3phase motor and VFD. Jim, What type of outboard 5C did you use? Chuck P. |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
Jim Stewart wrote:
RBnDFW wrote: Jim Stewart wrote: Bob La Londe wrote: I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. Don't overlook used Taiwan-made Jet lathes. I have a 10x24 and I've made all sorts of stuff on it, including internal and external single-point threads. It's a little more noisy and a little more flexible than I'd like, but it has always gotten the job done. I have a 10x24 Enco, made in the 1980s. Good machine. I use it most of the time rather than my Logan, which I just sold. It is a good machine. I fitted an outboard 5C collet holder to it and use that about 90% of the time. I also tossed the garbage motor that came with it and installed a 1hp 3phase motor and VFD. Mine came with a collet chuck, one of those that spins to lock. That is one reason this lathe gets used more. |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
RBnDFW wrote:
Jim Stewart wrote: RBnDFW wrote: Jim Stewart wrote: Bob La Londe wrote: I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. Don't overlook used Taiwan-made Jet lathes. I have a 10x24 and I've made all sorts of stuff on it, including internal and external single-point threads. It's a little more noisy and a little more flexible than I'd like, but it has always gotten the job done. I have a 10x24 Enco, made in the 1980s. Good machine. I use it most of the time rather than my Logan, which I just sold. It is a good machine. I fitted an outboard 5C collet holder to it and use that about 90% of the time. I also tossed the garbage motor that came with it and installed a 1hp 3phase motor and VFD. Mine came with a collet chuck, one of those that spins to lock. That is one reason this lathe gets used more. Is it a 4C? Mine also came with an adapter and drawbar for 4C, but I much prefer the 5C holder that I fitted to it. |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
Pilgrim wrote:
In , Jim wrote: RBnDFW wrote: Jim Stewart wrote: Bob La Londe wrote: I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. Don't overlook used Taiwan-made Jet lathes. I have a 10x24 and I've made all sorts of stuff on it, including internal and external single-point threads. It's a little more noisy and a little more flexible than I'd like, but it has always gotten the job done. I have a 10x24 Enco, made in the 1980s. Good machine. I use it most of the time rather than my Logan, which I just sold. It is a good machine. I fitted an outboard 5C collet holder to it and use that about 90% of the time. I also tossed the garbage motor that came with it and installed a 1hp 3phase motor and VFD. Jim, What type of outboard 5C did you use? Nice to hear from you, Chuck. I just bought the cheapest plain-back key-tighten holder that I could find on ebay. I had to make the backplate as my spindle thread is a bit odd. I can hunt down a pdf of the drawing if you are interested. |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
In article ,
Jim Stewart wrote: Pilgrim wrote: In , Jim wrote: RBnDFW wrote: Jim Stewart wrote: Bob La Londe wrote: I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. Don't overlook used Taiwan-made Jet lathes. I have a 10x24 and I've made all sorts of stuff on it, including internal and external single-point threads. It's a little more noisy and a little more flexible than I'd like, but it has always gotten the job done. I have a 10x24 Enco, made in the 1980s. Good machine. I use it most of the time rather than my Logan, which I just sold. It is a good machine. I fitted an outboard 5C collet holder to it and use that about 90% of the time. I also tossed the garbage motor that came with it and installed a 1hp 3phase motor and VFD. Jim, What type of outboard 5C did you use? Nice to hear from you, Chuck. I just bought the cheapest plain-back key-tighten holder that I could find on ebay. I had to make the backplate as my spindle thread is a bit odd. I can hunt down a pdf of the drawing if you are interested. Thanks. Maybe later. Chuck P. |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
"RBnDFW" wrote in message
... Bob La Londe wrote: I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. HF and others, such as Lathemaster, also offer a 8x14 lathe. It is reportedly much heavier and better made than the 9x20. I have not seen one, and they are not as well known or supported, but might be worth a look. I have seen them for under $500 new, but it's been a while. Still, there's those 20% coupons. I found the 9x20 HF on sale in one of my catalogs for $300 off with fewer accessories. Backordered on-line and 300 more than the sale price. At the store was told it's a internet only item. The only 20% off coupon I have found so far is in-store only. I'm just going to start putting aside a little cash plan to order a jet. |
HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
On Sun, 9 May 2010 07:08:53 -0700
"Bob La Londe" wrote: snip I found the 9x20 HF on sale in one of my catalogs for $300 off with fewer accessories. Backordered on-line and 300 more than the sale price. At the store was told it's a internet only item. The only 20% off coupon I have found so far is in-store only. I'm just going to start putting aside a little cash plan to order a jet. Can't remember where you're located anymore... Wholesale Tool sells basically the same lathe. See: http://www.wttool.com/product-exec/p...the_WT_Import_ or for a bit mo http://www.wttool.com/product-exec/p...the_WT_Import_ They have several locations, maybe something not too far away? -- Leon Fisk Grand Rapids MI/Zone 5b Remove no.spam for email |
Jet - HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
"Bob La Londe" wrote in message
... I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. The more I look into it the better the Jet looks. Comes with lots of stuff including a stand, chucks, centers, steady rests, and free shipping. The net price for comparable HF or WTT just doesn't add up when you add in a stand and freight. I guess I'll be getting a Jet. |
Jet - HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
Bob La Londe wrote:
"Bob La Londe" wrote in message ... I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. The more I look into it the better the Jet looks. Comes with lots of stuff including a stand, chucks, centers, steady rests, and free shipping. The net price for comparable HF or WTT just doesn't add up when you add in a stand and freight. I guess I'll be getting a Jet. If you are talking about the 9x20 lathe, you may not like the stand. I bought one of those stands locally with the intention of mounting an Atlas 618 on it. That stand was made for a midget! |
Jet - HF Mini Lathe - Ready To Step up Already
"RBnDFW" wrote in message ... Bob La Londe wrote: "Bob La Londe" wrote in message ... I've got an HF 7 x 10 mini lathe and its actually done ok. Quite often it exceeds the workability of the materials, but I found it to be just a tad under powered yesterday when I was roughing an injector nozzle out of aluminum. It could also stand a more rigid tool post / cross slide assembly. I don't plan to get rid of it as its very handy for some small work. In fact I plan to get the 14" bed for it from The Little Machine Shop, and if I can figure out a way to improve the rigidity of the tool post and cross slide I will. However, I am looking for something a little better and a little bit bigger also. I'm not made of money and I was kinda wondering what a nice middle range machine would be without going to one of those names that is priced as much by name recognition as by quality. The more I look into it the better the Jet looks. Comes with lots of stuff including a stand, chucks, centers, steady rests, and free shipping. The net price for comparable HF or WTT just doesn't add up when you add in a stand and freight. I guess I'll be getting a Jet. If you are talking about the 9x20 lathe, you may not like the stand. I bought one of those stands locally with the intention of mounting an Atlas 618 on it. That stand was made for a midget! Ditto. And for a 10 lb lathe. I did not dare to mount the lathe on it. Watch out for the 4-jaw chuck: If it is the old version like came with mine it is a pain. You will be replacing it soon. Free shipping is good... -- Michael Koblic, Campbell River, BC |
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