help with lathe

[mudduck]

https://stlouis.craigslist.org/tls/d/south-bend-lathe/6263180868.html. anyone have and opinion in this lathe. lookingfor one to learn on and do my own stuff

 

[Ggmac]

Run don't walk . I suggest a little more research on what's needed . Internet is great , but prior knowledge is helpful. New paint , bad start , chuck laying on bed , not real bad but usually a no no. Older than my grandfather. As an antique its about $200 down here in s Florida.
Inside DIAM of thru headstock is probably 3/4"

 

[rayjay]

Too old and too basic imo. I don't see a thread dial but maybe on some ancient machine you could use some combination of all those gears to do threading ?!?!? You need a quick change gearbox and a thread dial or else you will spend all your time trying to figure out how to get the thing set up to do some simple job. Plus, it looks like it's had a coat of paint slapped on and it's ready for flipping. Buy something from someone that's actually using the machine not a flipper.

 

[GenePoole]

Pass. That's way too old and way too underpowered/undersized for gunsmithing. If it were $200 to 300 it might be worth it if you just wanted something on which to learn.

 

[mudduck]

Thanks guys, i was thinking the same thing but needed some experts

 

[B Nettesheim]

Thats a great machine to learn on and cheap also. It is also small and easy to move. Remember you are the one making the part not necessarily the machine. A lathe like that comes in handy way too often. Why not try it out.

 

[msinc]

I agree with 308sawyer, but as above it doesn't have a threading dial. It does appear to have the bosses on the apron to bolt one on. She's old and parts or tooling will be a little tough to put a finger on. The biggest thing about those old South bend lathes is that they use a bronze "bushing" type main bearing. If the ones on this old grandma are worn, and I could hardly see how they are not, I don't know where or even if you could find replacements...I guess have them made??? The problem with all that is for the extra money you could probably find a much newer more user friendly machine. Don't dismiss South Bend by no means just because they are old...but there are a lot of later ones out there that might better serve the purpose...I am guessing you want to barrel some actions, etc. ???? Gotta be able to cut threads and as mentioned above, might want to seriously consider the "thru spindle" diameter also.

 

[spitfire_er]

That's 9C also. 9" lathe not a 10". Could probably find something better if you look around and have a little patience.

 

[Intheshop]

Patience,cash in hand,a trailer,and a friend to help load.Ideally someone who can make an inspection/assessment with you.

It's a rare occasion I buy a pce of equipment,over the phone.You need to do your research to find out what known problems there are on any particular machine.

Networking can not be overstated.One place you can check is at your local welding pro dealer.Go in and ask if they know of any local machine shops.Ask if they know any retired,older fab guys.....that you can go talk to.

 

[kapt]

I had one of these years ago. It is WAY under powered for any serious work. The original leather belt seems to have been replaced with a slotted of some type. Not sure if this is reasonable or not. In any event I sold it to a guy who only uses it for case and neck turning.

 

[Grimstod]

A very important thing to check is the ways. If there is a dip in them the lathe has to be reground and that is BIG $$.

A very good video to help you know what to look for.