Well, today I went and got a “New” lathe. Actually, as close I can figure it is from the late 60s – but that still makes it about 20 – 30 years younger than my other lathe. It is a Craftsman 12”x36” – like these.
I was already looking to add a quick change gearbox to my older Atlas lathe, and build a stand for it. So when I saw this one come up on craigslist I figured I would break even over upgrading my old lathe if I can sell the old one for a decent price.
Looks like I will need to make a new motor pulley, and replace the headstock bearings soonish – but I am kind of excited.
Here you can see the lathe wrestled into the corner of the shop. Joel came over and bailed my ass out big time. It was clear I would have dropped the lathe and maybe screwed up my truck the way I was planning on moving it if none of my friends could come over.